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Essay on Aviation And Transportation Security Act Of 2001
During the 107th Congress, more legislation impacting aviation security was proposed and passed into law then in any congressional session in history. Most, but not all of the legislation was written in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, including the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001 that completely overhauled security management and procedures at airports.
Upon return in January 2002, the new Congress had to wrestle with the budget, including funding for installing explosives detection systems at airports and for local and state law enforcement officers to help with aviation security.
Landmark legislation federalized airport screening system and required that 100 percent of checked baggage be screened at nation's commercial airports. The bill was drafted immediately after the September 11 terrorist attacks. It was passed by a House and Senate conference committee and signed by President Bush on November 19, 2001.
The Act also has related legislation. The Small Airport Safety, Security & Air Service Improvement Act allows small airports to use Airport Improvement Program grants to build air traffic control towers. It was passed by the House committee in June 2002 and was referred to the Senate Commerce Committee. The Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act Summary established a program to enable commercial airline pilots to carry firearms after receiving training. It was passed by the House committee and incorporated into legislation creating the Department of Homeland Security. (Office of Homeland Security, 2002)
The Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Act of 2002 created a comprehensive national maritime antiterrorism system, including security enhancements concerning crew and passenger manifests. It was passed by the House and Senate committee and presented to President Bush for signature on November 19, 2002.
The General Aviation Industry Reparations Act Summary provides economic relief to general aviation services that suffered substantial economic losses as a result....
