Rosen Helps Advance Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Aviation Safety in Senate Committee

WASHINGTON, DC - In the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped advance a bill she cosponsored to bolster aviation and airport security. Airline passengers currently pay a 9/11 Passenger Security Fee (PSF) on each ticket, which is intended to support aviation security, but since 2014, more than $13 billion collected from fees has been diverted to non-security uses. The bipartisan Rosen-backed Spending Aviation Fees for Equipment, Guaranteeing Upgraded and Advanced Risk Detection and Safety (SAFEGUARDS) Act would rectify that by dedicating a significant portion of the funds to investing in airport screening technology to keep passengers safe.

"Nevada's tourism economy depends on safe and secure air travel. As threats increase and evolve, we must continue investing in screening technology improvements to make sure travelers are safe in our skies," said Senator Rosen. "This bipartisan legislation ensures funding meant for security is actually used for that purpose, making hundreds of millions of dollars available. I'm glad to support it in committee and see it one step closer to becoming law."

Senator Rosen has consistently worked to deliver funding to boost aviation security and support Nevada airports. She helped secure over $18 million for airport improvements across Nevada, and last week announced an additional $9 million for Harry Reid International Airport. During Washington Republicans' shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, Senator Rosen introduced and repeatedly tried to pass legislation to pay TSA workers but was blocked by Senate Republicans.

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