Perlmutter Applauds DIA and TSA for Smooth Holiday Travel

Press Release

Perlmutter Applauds DIA and TSA for Smooth Holiday Travel

Lakewood, CO- Congressman Ed Perlmutter released the following statement concerning transportation security after the busy Thanksgiving travel weekend:

"During some of the busiest days of the year at the airport this past weekend, I was pleased to see security lines moving well and wait times consistently under 10 minutes. This success was a collaborative effort of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), DIA, and the air carriers.

"In the wake of recent reports of long security lines and other security issues at DIA, I have been working with the House Homeland Security Committee and TSA to address these problems. Many months ago, I asked TSA to add additional screeners at DIA, and they did. Now I am asking TSA to allow us to keep these additional screeners throughout the holiday travel season and beyond. It is clear that with proper staffing and technology, we can manage even the busiest travel days. We should have this same level of efficiency at all times.

"DIA is the fourth busiest airport in the country, yet in October it was reported that we experienced some of the worst delays. Since that time, TSA has implemented nearly two dozen recommendations to reduce wait times. This weekend's short wait times show the success of those recommendations.

"Transportation security is all about balancing passenger convenience and efficiency with the highest level of security. It is vital for this airport and TSA to have access to and use the available resources to ensure the safety and security of the traveling public. While TSA and DIA continue to enhance security training, they have shown this past week that they can resolve the problem of long security lines.

"I will continue to work with the TSA, Homeland Security officials and my colleagues in Congress to make sure TSA has the resources it needs to deploy newer, more innovative screening technology for baggage and passengers, and hire the best security force to protect against potential security threats. To that end, I urge the House and Senate Appropriators to include $5.198 billion for aviation security, $4.218 billion of which is for screening operations, as part of the 2008 budget. I am hopeful that House and Senate negotiators will reach a decision soon on this budget and that the President will sign it."

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