Late last night, the Senate passed S. 3542, legislation based on the No-Hassle Flying Act that Rep. Joe Walsh (IL-08) introduced and the House passed in September. The Senate-companion bill of the same name was introduced by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roy Blunt (R-MO) and now heads to House of Representatives before it goes to the President.

“I am happy the Senate acted so quickly to pass this common-sense bill,” said Walsh.  “It’s proof once again that when Members put aside partisan differences, they can act swiftly to ease the lives of Americans in matters of national security.”

The No-Hassle Flying Act streamlines baggage security measures for international flights.  Because of an ambiguity in law, passengers originating from some overseas airports must have their baggage screened twice when returning home to the United States.  Members from the House of Representatives, Senate, and the Transportation Security Administration worked on compromise language that ensures passengers are no longer burdened by this double-security.

The collaborative legislation by Klobuchar, Blunt, and Walsh also received public support from industry groups Airlines 4 America, Airports Council International, American Association of Airport Executives, Global Business Travel Association, and the US Travel Association.