Legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA) to improve security at U.S. railways and mass transit systems advanced the U.S. House, the congresswoman announced Tuesday.
The Strengthening Local Transportation Security Capabilities Act (H. R. 1870) would put more federal intelligence analysts and resource systems near high-risk transportation assets, including public transportation rail and bus systems. Additionally, the bill would provide new terrorism-focused training and improve cooperation between federal state and local law enforcement partners.
“Transit systems are a lifeline to our communities, providing mobility to millions of Americans traveling every day. In my district, my constituents rely on L.A. Metro rail and bus systems to get to work, doctor appointments, or to visit friends and family. I want them to be safe,” Barragán said. “In Los Angeles and throughout the country, transit systems are designed to be easily accessible for the passengers. That accessibility makes them difficult to protect and potential targets for terrorists – both domestic and foreign. This bill is critical for providing the necessary resources to keep our transit systems, and all who use them, safe and secure.”
Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, co-sponsored the legislation.
“As our state and local law enforcement face a growing range of threats – from domestic terrorism and beyond — we need to ensure that high-risk surface transportation systems have the resources they need to protect their systems and passengers,” Thompson said. “I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this timely legislation that will provide state and local transit systems with the support they need to keep the public safe.”