Should TSA Improve Its Vetting of Airport Workers? (H.R. 2750)

What is H.R. 2750?

(Updated July 19, 2017)

This bill would direct the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) to develop enhanced security procedures for workers who require unescorted access to secure areas at airports. It would establish a pilot program to test information sharing procedures with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to test the implementation of the Rap Back Service.

By the end of 2015, TSA would have additional Terrorist Identities Datamart Environment (TIDE) data among other data in order to assist in the TSA’s credential vetting. It would also issue guidance for airports that must ensure workers are authorized to work in the U.S. before they are credentialed.

Each year, TSA inspectors would be required to review airport badging office procedures for vetting applicants seeking access to sensitive areas at airports to ensure compliance with this legislation.

The TSA would also provide reports on the progress of these efforts to relevant congressional committees.

Argument in favor

While it often isn’t the first thing to be thought of in the realm of airport security, ensuring that workers who spend time in secure areas have the proper credentials and do not pose a threat is a critical aspect of deterring terrorism.

Argument opposed

Enhancing the security procedures that allow airport workers to get their credentials to work in sensitive parts of airports is a good step, but it will only be successful if TSA can implement the changes — which may require more time.

Impact

Workers who would need to access sensitive areas of airports, airport personnel providing credentials, Congress, and TSA.

Cost of H.R. 2750

The CBO estimates that implementing this legislation would not have a significant impact on the federal budget.

Additional Info

In-Depth: This bill was passed unanimously by House Homeland Security Committee via voice vote.

Media:

• Sponsoring Rep. John Katko (R-NY) Press Release
• CBO Cost Estimate

Summary by Eric Revell
(Photo Credit: Flickr user cogdogblog)