House Approves Airline Security Package

President to Sign Measure Into Law Before Thanksgiving

November 16, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Calling it a “tremendous victory for the American traveling public,” Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve comprehensive airline security legislation . The Aviation Security Act Conference Report, or S. 1447, was approved in the House by a wide bipartisan margin, 410-9. The Senate had approved the package earlier today, so it now goes to the President for his signature.

“The bill approved today is a true bipartisan, bicameral compromise,” Dreier said. “We’ve always been united in our commitment to provide the American public a safer flying experience. That unity was displayed by today’s vote. While we will never forget the tragic events of September 11th, we must move forward with a stronger, more secure airline security system. The bill passed today protects our cherished freedom of travel.”

Under the agreement reached by the House and Senate, the Aviation Security Conference Report will do the following:

• Immediately federalize the screening functions of the nation’s airports, and allow airports the option to
• return to private screening after three years;
• Require that all checked baggage be screened, and that all screeners be American citizens;
• Create an Under Secretary for Transportation Security within the Department of Transportation,
• responsible for overseeing the implementation of increased standards;
• Dramatically increase the number of sky marshals on domestic flights.

Dreier noted that without the diligent work of many House members, specifically Transportation Committee Chairman Don Young (R-AK), Aviation Subcommittee Chairman John Mica (R-FL), and Ranking Member Jim Oberstar (D-MN), the agreement with the Senate would not have been reached in time for the busy Thanksgiving holiday. “Don, John, Jim and their staffs worked very hard to see that the American people would have peace of mind as they travel over the holiday. We’re all grateful for their efforts.”