To ensure funds are available under the aviation workforce development grant program for technical assistance and to require consideration for certain applicants.

“(3) Set aside for technical assistance—The Secretary may set aside up to 2 percent of the funds appropriated to carry out this subsection for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2028 to provide technical assistance to eligible applicants for a grant under this subsection.

“(4) Consideration for certain applicants—In reviewing and selecting applications for grants under the programs established under subsection (a), the Secretary may give consideration to applicants that provide an assurance—

“(A) to use grant funds to encourage the participation of populations that are underrepresented in the aviation industry, including in economically disadvantaged geographic areas and rural communities;

“(B) to address the workforce needs of rural and regional airports; or

“(C) to strengthen aviation programs at a minority-serving institution (as described in section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)), a public institution of higher education, or a public postsecondary vocational institution.”