Gardner introduces bill to strengthen airport security

U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO) introduced an amendment on Tuesday that requires the administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to establish a pilot program to improve the physical layout of security screening operations at airports.

“The recent attack in Brussels raised concerns about potential vulnerabilities in security operations at U.S. airports, and particularly at Denver International Airport,” Gardner said. “This amendment directs the administrator of TSA to establish a pilot program to assist airports to strengthen their security screening operations. It represents an important step toward safer airports in Colorado and throughout the country.”

The bill stipulates that the administrator may provide financial assistance to airports in the form of long-term funding obligations through letters of intent. The program must be completed before Dec. 31, 2019.

The legislation stems from testimony to the Senate Commerce, Space, Science and Transportation Committee by TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger. Neffenger said that airport security at Denver International Airport (DIA) could serve as a prototype for airports across the country, presenting an opportunity to update security operations.

Gardner;s amendment follows a letter from DIA discussing the possibility of moving security to a safer location in the airport.