II 112th CONGRESS 2d Session S. 2207 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 20, 2012 Mr. Schumer (for himself and Ms. Collins) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation A BILL To require the Office of the Ombudsman of the Transportation Security Administration to appoint passenger advocates at Category X airports to assist elderly and disabled passengers who believe they have been mistreated by TSA personnel and for other purposes.

1.

Short title

This Act may be cited as the Restoring Integrity and Good-Heartedness in Traveler Screening Act or the RIGHTS Act.

2.

Functions of the Office of the Ombudsman

In addition to existing functions, the Office of the Ombudsman of the Transportation Security Administration (referred to in this Act as the Office) shall— (1)record complaints from the general public regarding screening practices at the Transportation Security Administration (referred to in this Act as the TSA); (2)determine best practices to resolve frequent passenger complaints and assist in training TSA agents regarding such practices; (3)resolve passenger complaints at airports accusing TSA employees of mistreatment; and (4)field advance notification calls from individuals with medical conditions or disabilities and arrange for airport screening procedures for such individuals that ensure flight safety without causing them undue hardship.

3.

Passenger advocates

(a)

In general

The duties of the Office shall be performed by passenger advocates under the supervision of the Ombudsman. (b)

Appointment

The Ombudsman shall appoint passenger advocates at each Category X airport from the ranks of existing TSA employees who— (1)have not been subject to disciplinary action by the TSA; and (2)shall receive— (A)special training in conflict resolution; and (B)sufficient medical training to recognize frequent legitimate complaints based on medical conditions and disabilities. (c)

Implementation

Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, every Category X airport shall always have at least 1 TSA passenger advocate on duty during operating hours. (d)

Sign requirements

Every Category X airport shall place clearly visible signage at each gate that— (1)explains that a passenger advocate may be summoned if a passenger believes that a TSA employee has been mistreated on the basis of advanced age or disability; and (2)describes the procedures for summoning the passenger advocate.