Katko Legislation To Enhance Airport Security Signed Into Law

Press Release

The Gerardo Hernandez Airport Security Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24), has been signed into Public Law by President Obama. Of the twelve bills that Representative Katko has introduced in the House of Representatives this Congress, this bill is the first that has been signed into law.

"I'm proud to announce that the President has signed into law this important, bipartisan legislation to mitigate threats at our nation's airports," said U.S. Rep. John Katko. "Named in honor of the TSA agent who tragically lost his life in the November 2013 shooting at Los Angeles International Airport, this measure will allow for better coordination by our state, local, and federal law enforcement in responding to and assessing threats."

Since taking office in January, Rep. Katko has focused on fighting through Washington gridlock to deliver bipartisan legislative outcomes. To date, Katko has introduced twelve bills, four of which have passed the U.S. House of Representatives. As Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee's Transportation Security subcommittee, he has worked in a bipartisan manner to lead the Committee's efforts to address gaps in the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) employee access screening and vetting procedures, and as a result, has put forth legislation prioritizing the safety of travel for all Americans.

"While there is still much to be done to enhance security measures at airports nationwide, increasing preparedness requirements will go a long way in helping to ensure that the traveling public is kept safe," concluded Katko. "Coordination by local law enforcement, emergency first responders, and TSA is the first step towards helping our nation's transportation systems overcome the challenges experienced during the LAX shooting."

The legislation requires enhanced security and communication at airports nationwide. Specifically, it requires TSA to verify that all airports and high-risk surface transportation hubs have an appropriate security response plan in place to effectively train for and respond to security incidents when they occur. Further, it will ensure that emergency communications equipment is regularly tested and that emergency first-responders are able to communicate with each other and the public during a major security incident.

Katko commended his colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their work on this effort, noting that that the legislation not only improves airport security but also demonstrates that Washington can still work in a bipartisan way.

Alongside his efforts on the House Committee on Homeland Security, Rep. Katko has introduced and championed district-inspired legislation to stimulate local tourism, develop the nation's first Mesothelioma Patient Registry Act, secure our northern border, and prevent the IRS from wasting taxpayer dollars.

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