One of the key lessons of Sept. 11th is that we must secure our rail, air and sea lines to protect ourselves against the kind of attack our nation experienced. As I travel through the Third Congressional District, almost everyone I meet is concerned about transportation security.

    And, they are right to be concerned. It's the job of the federal government to ensure the safety of the traveling public. To that end, Congress recently passed the Airline Security Act, which will establish a new agency within the Department of Transportation that will oversee security on airplanes, trains, ships, highways and other modes of transportation. The creation of this transportation security agency is long overdue and will help restore the public's confidence in all modes of transportation.

    Air travel has gotten the most attention since Sept. 11. BWI Airport was closed for about 48 hours following the attack, and it was one of the first airports in the nation to reopen. Since then, long lines have been a problem as security checks have been increased.

    The recently passed aviation security bill will tighten airport security even more. It will federalize all airport security screeners for three years; require security screeners to be U.S. citizens; require the screening of all luggage within 60 days; secure cockpit doors and permit pilots to carry certain types of guns.

    Now we need to turn our attention to improving rail security. Since Sept. 11th, Amtrak has seen a tremendous increase in ridership, and has significantly improved security. It remains on the highest state of alert, and now requires passengers to show a photo ID to purchase a ticket. If passengers use a credit card, information about them is encrypted on the card. Amtrak checks information gathered through ticket purchases against the FBI Watch List.

    In the wake of Sept. 11th , Amtrak has asked Congress for $2.3 billion to help meet security needs. Amtrak is particularly concerned about improving security on bridges, tunnels and other vulnerable locations. It's clear that the Howard Street tunnel fire this summer made all of us aware of the dangers and disruptions that are possible along rail lines.

    I also recently joined Rep. Wayne Gilchrest in meeting with Maryland Port Authority officials to discuss needed seaport security improvements. The Port of Baltimore is working to improve its vehicle container inspection system so that the U.S. Customs Service can inspect entire containers arriving from overseas.

    But we need to do more. There are currently two bills before Congress that would significantly enhance the security of ports nationwide. The key provisions would require the Coast Guard to develop standards and procedures in conducting seaport security assessments. It also would authorize loan guarantees and grants to cover costs of improving security infrastructure at ports.

    Our nation has been changed forever since Sept. 11th. One of our top priorities must be to ensure the safety and security of our transportation network. Our rail, air, highway and sea lines are vital to our national interest and we must devote the necessary resources to ensure the safety of the traveling public.