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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) joined President Bush this morning to celebrate the signing of landmark aviation security legislation that will drastically improve the way security is handled at our nation’s airports and in our skies. Rockefeller, who sponsored the Senate measure and helped negotiate the final bill, was one of the most vocal supporters of the key provision to put federal law enforcement officers in charge of passenger and baggage screening.

"This aviation security bill is a huge win for passenger safety, in every part of the nation, and especially in West Virginia," Rockefeller said. "There were those in Congress who wanted to give federal security to large airports and a second-tier system to smaller airports. Fortunately, we held out, and, ultimately, passenger safety won."

Noting that for the first time in history airport security will become a direct federal responsibility, Rockefeller added, "This legislation demands and ensures that the safety of our skies is given the same priority as the safety of our streets and our borders."

The Senator also concluded that, "The sooner the actual provisions of the law are implemented, the sooner the public’s confidence will be restored. When Americans once again feel safe in the sky, we will have claimed a major victory in our war against terrorism."

In addition to putting federal law enforcement officers in charge of passenger and baggage screening, the legislation also expands the existing air marshal program; strengthens cockpit doors; and, provides anti-hijack training for pilots and flight attendants.

Other key features include requiring inspections of every piece of baggage -- both checked and carry-on; screening of everything that is put on an airplane including food, beverages, mail, etc.; and, background checks of every employee that services the flight, including catering company workers.

To finance the security improvements, passengers will be charged a $2.50 fee, up to a maximum of $5.00 per one-way trip.

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