Bilirakis Presses for Immediate Changes to Improve Safety of Air Travel

Press Release

Today, Congressman Bilirakis proudly introduced the Security Assessment Feasibility for Equipment Testing and Evaluation of Capabilities for our Homeland (SAFE TECH) Act. This important legislation stems from the Congressman's recent Congressional Delegation trip during which he had the opportunity to review screening procedures at major EU hubs like Amsterdam and Frankfurt for inbound travel to the United States. Technical standards for safety and operating procedures at international airports are set by international agreements. The standards set are generally broad; leaving vulnerabilities through inconsistencies with international partners. The legislation introduced today will address this concern, and improve the safety of air travel for all passengers. Specifically, this legislation will provide an avenue for 3rd party testing of innovative technology screening capabilities to enhance airport security. It will also assess the feasibility of linking compatible security technology utilized by the United States and international allies in order to augment screening check points. This coordinated collaboration is an essential element of strengthening global security.

"I have always contended that if we are not safe, then nothing else matters. During my recent fact finding mission, I was startled by lack of consistency in international standards and gaps in technology that support precautionary measures to ensure passenger safety. I am convinced this is something that needs to be immediately rectified, and I urge my colleagues' support of this important bill with expedited passage," said Congressman Bilirakis.

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