SENATE COMMERCE COMMITTEE MOVES AIR-CARGO SECURITY BILL FORWARD

SENATE COMMERCE COMMITTEE MOVES AIR-CARGO SECURITY BILL FORWARD    The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved legislation on March 13 to enhance cargo transported in the bellies of passenger planes.
   The legislation, Air Cargo Security Act (S.165), was introduced by Sens. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, and Diane Feinstein, D-Calif., on Jan. 15.
   The legislation calls for several steps to improve air-cargo security:
   * The Transportation Security Agency would be required to develop a strategic plan to ensure that all air cargo is screened, inspected and secure.
   * TSA would also be required to develop a system for regular inspection of air-cargo shipping facilities.
   * A “known shipper” database would be created to improve the nation’s known shipper program.
   * Indirect air carriers, or freight forwarders, could have their certificates revoked if TSA finds that they are not complying with security regulations.
   * The current federal security program for indirect air carriers would be reviewed and assessed for possible improvements.
   * TSA would develop a security training program for persons who handle air cargo.
   * All-cargo carriers would be required to develop security plans that would be subject to approval by the TSA.
   Other cargo amendments made to the legislation by the Senate Commerce Committee include the requirement for a report from the Federal Aviation Administration and TSA on blast-resistant cargo containers and allowing cargo pilots to participate in the Federal Flight Deck Officer program.