(Washington, D.C.)-On Wednesday, July 10, Third District Congressman Chip Pickering will vote for H.R. 4635, the 'Arming Pilots Against Terrorism Act'. The bill authorizes a two-year test period when about 1400 airline pilots would be armed with handguns in the cockpits. The bill is scheduled to be voted on today in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Congressman Pickering is a co-sponsor of the legislation. The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Congressman Pickering stated, "Pilots who are well-trained in handling a handgun should be allowed to be armed while in the cockpit to protect the security of the passengers of the plane from any potential act or terrorism."

The bill authorizes a two-year trial period that will allow 1400 airline pilots to be armed in the cockpit. Before being deputized with firearms, pilots will undergo Transportation Security Administration (TSA) training. The TSA will be responsible for establishing protocols for carrying guns including where they will be stored and what type will be used. At the conclusion of the two-year test period, Congress will consider whether to continue, expand, or terminate the program.