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ROCKEFELLER: AVIATION SECURITY DEADLINES CAN AND MUST BE MET
-Senator Chairs Nomination Hearing for Under Secretary for Transportation Security-

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), at the Nomination Hearing for the new Under Secretary for Transportation Security, said today that the new leader for transportation security must act aggressively to meet the deadlines set for improving aviation security. Rockefeller, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation, presided at a hearing for the nomination of John Magaw to be the first head of transportation security.

"The status quo simply will not do for aviation security. Whether people board planes in West Virginia, or at major hubs, security must be the number one priority," Rockefeller said. "Every one of these new security measures is critical and must be implemented as quickly as possible ."

Rockefeller continued, "We will not accept claims that something ‘can’t be done’. During World War II, entire factories were changed over in a matter of weeks or months to produce planes and tanks needed for the war effort. Today, there is a similar will and need to secure our transportation system. It is a great challenge, but we must face it head on."

The final aviation security legislation, which passed in November puts federal law enforcement officers in charge of passenger and baggage screening, expands the existing air marshal program; strengthens cockpit doors; and provides anti-hijack training for pilots and flight attendants.

"An essential part of improving security will be the new federalized screeners. They are our front line in passenger safety, and, therefore, must receive the best training and get the respect, protections and benefits that they deserve," Rockefeller added.

The legislation also requires inspections of every piece of baggage -- both checked and carry-on by January 18^th, but gives airlines and the Department of Transportation flexibility in the methods used to achieve that. It also mandates the screening of all items put on an airplane, including food, beverages, mail, etc.; and background checks of every employee that services the flight, including catering company workers.

The Department of Transportation, and ultimately the Under Secretary for Transportation Security, are responsible for implementing the new federal requirements and guidelines set forth in the legislation.

Rockefeller played a lead role in authoring and securing passage of the aviation security legislation.

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