[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 5, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1204]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TSA NATIONAL DEPLOYMENT FORCE ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 4, 2018

  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6461, 
the ``TSA National Deployment Force Act''.
  At a time when the aviation transportation sector is undergoing 
substantial changes, it is crucial that we take steps to ensure the 
Transportation Security Administration is able to protect the skies.
  Any holes or deficiencies in the security of our aviation sector pose 
a great risk to the traveling public.
  As a tireless advocate for public safety, I am pleased to see that 
this bill would establish a National Deployment Office within TSA that 
has the ability to help fill security gaps.
  Because of the nature of air travel, the security risks posed to the 
aviation sector are constantly changing. These shifting risks can 
depend on a number of various factors, and it is important that TSA 
have the capacity to adapt in a flexible way to changing circumstances.
  The National Deployment Office will allow TSA to deploy additional 
security officers when:
  Airports request them due to emergencies, staff difficulties, or 
other unforeseen issues.
  Special events that may potentially affect National Security are 
occurring.
  A natural disaster or weather event occurs, and additional security 
staff are needed.
  It is absolutely critical that TSA has adequate resources to ensure 
that the traveling public is both protected, and confident in the 
safety of air travel.
  To that end, this measure emphasizes the importance of a flexible 
approach that will give TSA greater capabilities for rapid response to 
a security risk.

                          ____________________