Fri, Mar 07, 2003
Unfunded Mandate Issue Comes Up in Denver
Denver International Airport's (DEN) Deputy
Manager of Aviation, Amy Bourgeron, testified before a U.S. House
of Representatives Subcommittee Thursday, and urged Congress to
provide the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with
sufficient monies to fund in-line installation of explosive
detection system (EDS) equipment at major airports to meet the
December 31, 2003 deadline for 100% baggage screening.
DEN officials believe the most efficient way to do this in
Denver is by integrating the large explosive detection machines
into the airport's baggage systems, rather than installing the
machines in the airport lobby. The project will cost $90 million
and take nine months to complete at DEN, but funding for the TSA to
date has not been sufficient.
DEN is urging Congress to provide the necessary
funding in a Supplemental Appropriations Bill. If sufficient
funding is not made available this year, DEN wants Congress to
provide 100% of the project funds through the Letters of Intent
(LOI) program. Congress has already given the TSA the authority to
issue LOIs to cover the costs of terminal modifications for in-line
systems, but right now, LOIs only cover 75% of the costs. Bourgeron
said, "If the terminal modification costs are imposed on airports,
it will divert funds that could otherwise be put into needed
capacity improvements. It will also cause further harm to the
already financially-strapped airline industry."
In her testimony, Bourgeron also:
-
Asked Congress to expedite the TSA's certification
process of explosive detection technology developed by the Heimann
Corporation in order to improve safety, security and efficiency of
screening baggage
- Sought Congressional support for the Small Community Air
Service
- Development Program and the Essential Air Service Program.
- Thanked the Committee for its support of construction of DEN's
sixth runway
DEN officials thank Colorado Congressman Bob Beauprez, for
suggesting that the airport be invited to present testimony to the
Subcommittee.
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