As air travel demand continues to rise nationwide, U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) is backing new legislation to ensure airport security fees are used for aviation security improvements rather than being redirected to other areas of federal spending.
Strong recently introduced the bipartisan SAFEGUARDS Act alongside U.S. Rep. Tim Kennedy (D-NY). The act would require revenue collected through the federal 9/11 Passenger Security Fee to be reinvested into airport and aviation security upgrades nationwide.
Passengers currently pay a $5.60 fee on one-way airline tickets to help fund aviation security improvements, though Strong’s office said billions collected through the program have been redirected away from those purposes since 2014.
Under the legislation, $500 million annually would be directed toward checked baggage explosive detection systems, while another $250 million would support checkpoint technology upgrades intended to improve screening efficiency and modernize airport security systems.
The legislation comes as the Transportation Security Administration faces increasing passenger volumes and growing demands on the nation’s aviation security infrastructure ahead of several major international events expected to bring millions of visitors to the United States over the next several years.
Strong, who chairs the Homeland Security Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee, said the legislation would help ensure TSA has the resources needed to modernize screening systems and address evolving security threats at airports nationwide.
“As we prepare to host millions of visitors for major international events and continue facing evolving threats to our homeland, we must ensure TSA has the resources necessary to secure our airports with modern screening technology and upgrades that keep passengers safe. The SAFEGUARDS Act ensures that the resources are available to do just that,” Strong said.
The bill has also received support from Huntsville International Airport, which serves travelers and businesses across North Alabama. Butch Roberts, CEO of the Port of Huntsville and Huntsville International Airport, said the legislation would help ensure passenger security fees are used for their original purpose.
“We appreciate Congressman Dale Strong for his efforts to support and strengthen the transportation needs of our passengers and regional community. The SAFEGUARDS Act would ensure that passenger fees are returned to their intended purpose—investing in advanced technologies that enhance the safety and efficiency of air travel across the U.S. Maintaining a modern, secure aviation system is essential,” Roberts said.
The legislation was introduced with bipartisan support in the House as lawmakers continue debating how to modernize airport security systems and prepare for increasing travel demand in the coming years.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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