For Immediate Release
{June 4, 2009}

Contact: Michael Eagle
(202) 225-7924

Congresswoman Richardson Votes to Fully Authorize the TSA
-Bill would be the first full authorization since its enactment in 2001-

WASHINGTON —Less than five months on the Homeland Security Committee, Congresswoman Richardson spoke during the debate time and amendments to urge her colleagues through knowledge and information to support the long awaited TSA Authorization.  Congresswoman Richardson voted for the Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act of 2009 (H.R. 2200), legislation that will authorize over $15.6 billion for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for fiscal years 2010 and 2011. 

Since the TSA’s creation in 2001, it has focused primarily on aviation security.  The bill passed today will begin to put surface transportation security on equal footing with aviation security.  “Since the attacks of 9/11, subsequent events in Madrid and London have shown us that surface transportation systems are highly vulnerable targets for terrorist attacks,” Congresswoman Richardson said.  “In light of the number of people who travel in Los Angeles County throughout the 37th Congressional District, there should not be a hesitation to address the need for enhanced security for surface transportation.”

The Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act of 2009 will triple funding for surface transportation security.  The bill will also establish, within the TSA, the Surface Transportation Security Inspection Office to train and manage inspectors and to conduct and assist with security activities in surface transportation systems, as well as create a Transit Security Advisory Committee to facilitate stakeholder and public input to TSA on surface transportation policy.

“These provisions will go along way toward protecting the 3 million travelers annually through the Long Beach Airport and will give a greater piece of mind to those who travel on the Blue Line or Long Beach Transit,” Congresswoman Richardson said.  “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is projected to invest billions of dollars in investments for high-speed rail and it is important that we fund security measures that will ensure the safety of those who travel and protect our investments.”

With respect to aviation security, the bill will direct the TSA to develop a strategic, risk-based plan to enhance security of airport perimeters, establish an oversight program for carrier-provided security training for flight attendants and crews, authorizing resources for the administration of the Federal Flight Deck Officer program and requires additional training sites for recurring training.

The TSA was first created in the wake of the 2001 terror attacks in New York and Washington.  The bill passed today, however, is the first measure to fully authorize the TSA since its enactment.

Congresswoman Richardson is a Democrat from California’s 37th Congressional District.  She is a member of the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security.  Her district includes Long Beach, Compton, Carson, Watts, Willowbrooke and Signal Hill.

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