The U.S. Senate unanimously approved bipartisan legislation Thursday to update federal rules governing mental health care for pilots and air traffic controllers, with lawmakers arguing that outdated policies can discourage aviation workers from seeking treatment.

The legislation, sponsored by Sens. John Hoeven (R-ND) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), seeks to reduce the professional consequences associated with reporting mental health conditions or receiving treatment.

A separate measure approved by the Senate would require the Federal Aviation Administration to provide clear, accessible guidance on medications that pilots and controllers can safely take. Lawmakers said workers should not risk their careers simply because they are unaware that a particular medication could affect their medical certification.

“Their careers should never be threatened because they weren't properly informed about which medications they're allowed to take, or simply sought the mental health care they need,” Duckworth said.

The issue received renewed attention after an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot was charged in 2023 with attempting to disable the engines of a passenger jet during a flight. The pilot later told police he had been experiencing a nervous breakdown.

Pilots face strict restrictions on certain medications and can be required to stop flying for three months after changing the dosage or medication used to treat anxiety or depression.

Hoeven pointed to a shortage of qualified pilots and air traffic controllers, arguing that bureaucratic delays at the FAA can keep trained professionals out of the workforce for extended periods when they seek mental health treatment.

The Allied Pilots Association, which represents about 17,000 American Airlines pilots, supported the legislation. APA President Nick Silva said pilots have faced longstanding obstacles when seeking treatment and navigating the federal medical certification process.

The FAA convened an expert panel in late 2023 to examine mental health policies and identify barriers preventing aviation workers from reporting mental health concerns. The panel found that about 20% of pilots and air traffic controllers who report a mental health issue are initially disqualified from working, while approval for some antidepressant medications can take more than a year.