U.S. Rep. Dan Donovan (R-NY) introduced the Transit Security Grant Program Flexibility Act, H.R.5943, on Thursday to improve the ability of transit agencies to prevent and respond to terror attacks.
Donovan said that his bill will give flexibility to the Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP), which would provide options for transit agencies in preparing for an attack.
“Our local and national transportation systems remain a top terror target, so it’s vital that transit agencies have the resources they need to prevent and prepare for emergency situations,” Donovan said. “This bill will help secure subway, bus and commuter rail systems for the millions of Americans who rely on them.”
The bill would expand the scope of how TSGP funds can be used by allowing the funds to cover additional security training costs and will extend the deadline for using the security grants from two to three years.
TSGP provides eligible transit agencies with funds for various capital and operational projects, which includes tunnel protection systems, evacuation improvements, canine patrols, security training, and exercises and public awareness campaigns.
Donovan’s bill is currently being considered by the Homeland Security Committee.
Donovan chairs the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response and Communications.