Bill to Secure Nation’s Rail and Mass Transit Systems Introduced
Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, and Congressman Peter T. King (R-NY), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, introduced “The Rail and Public Transportation Security Act of 2007.” This legislation will close the security gaps facing rail and mass transit and focus attention on training, grants, security planning, research and development, and securing hazardous materials.
The bill is scheduled to be marked up by the Full Committee next week.
Chairman Thompson issued the following statement regarding the introduction of the legislation:
“This threat is not a new one,” said Thompson. “The world’s rail and mass transit systems have been plagued by terrorism for years, though little has been done here to secure our own systems despite past efforts by Congress. I am hopeful that this year will be different and we can finally direct the Department of Homeland Security to focus on this vulnerability and provide the necessary resources to secure our rail and mass transit systems.”
Ranking Member King stated:
“Last Fall, I stated that rail and mass transit security had to be our Committee’s top priority at the start of the 110th Congress, and I am pleased to now lead the effort along with Chairman Thompson,” King said. “While there are a few issues still to be worked out through the Committee process, overall this bill will do a great deal to improve security nationwide. Most important, the legislation maintains and enhances the rail and mass transit security grant program exclusively within the Department of Homeland Security, where it belongs.”
Additionally, Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX), Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Transporation Security and Infrastructure Protection, added the following:
“Recent world events are a wake-up call that we must do more to secure our transportation systems and this legislation will take an critical step in securing these systems. This bill authorizes more than $5.1 billion dollars for the next four years, for rail, mass transit, and bus security. With this bill—for the first time—we will have comprehensive vulnerability assessments and security plans for rail, mass transit and buses, which means more protection for Americans.”
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Democratic Staff: Dena Graziano or Todd Levett at (202) 225-9978.
Republican Staff: Chad Scarborough at (202) 226-8417.
