House Passes Rail and Mass Transit Security Resolution

The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday passed H.Res. 28, enhancing security of the nation's rail and mass transit systems, in a 417-3 vote. The resolution, sponsored by Rep. Jackson-Lee (D-TX), would allow the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to enhance security measures at the nation's rail and mass transit lines, under Congressional mandate provided by the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007. H.Res. 28 mandates TSA to:

• Continue to enhance security to the nation's rail and mass transit systems and other surface transportation modes;
• Continue developing TSA's National Explosives Detection Canine Team Program, which has effectively secured the nation's rail and mass transit systems from explosives threats; and
• Enhance online training programs to ensure that individuals responsible for securing surface transportation systems are highly trained to prevent and respond to potential terrorist attacks.

In June, the House passed H.R. 2200, the Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act of 2009, which authorizes TSA to implement security over the nation's rail and mass transit systems. That measure has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and is awaiting Senate action.