hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Conveys three F-14D Tomcat aircraft to a Huntsville, Alabama museum.
Rep. Hamadeh (R-AZ) and nine co-sponsors.
Introduced in the House, referred to committee.
This bill, called the Maverick Act of 2026, authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to give three specific F-14D Tomcat fighter jets to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama, for display and historical preservation. Representative Hamadeh, a Republican from Arizona, introduced the bill. It has been sent to the House Armed Services Committee for review, which is the first step in the legislative process.
Introduced Apr 16, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 16, 2026, and immediately referred to the House Committee on Armed Services. It must pass through this committee, then be voted on by the full House. If it passes the House, it would then move to the Senate for consideration, and eventually, if passed by both chambers, be sent to the President to become law.
If passed, three iconic F-14D Tomcat aircraft, including specific bureau numbers 163283, 164602, and 159437, could be transferred to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The Navy would also provide necessary operations manuals and excess spare parts to help the museum restore and maintain these aircraft. These jets would be restricted to public display, airshows, or commemorative events, ensuring their role in preserving naval aviation history and public access.
Supporters Say
Supporters believe this bill helps preserve important naval aviation history and makes these iconic aircraft accessible to the public at no cost to taxpayers.
Critics Say
The bill does not specify direct criticisms, but by outlining that the museum bears all costs, it anticipates and addresses potential concerns about taxpayer expense.
Those in favor would likely highlight the educational and historical value of making these legendary F-14D Tomcat aircraft available for public display, thus celebrating U.S. naval aviation heritage. The bill explicitly states that the conveyance is 'at no cost to the United States' and that the museum must cover all associated expenses, including maintenance and operation, effectively addressing any potential argument that this would burden taxpayers.