Press Release of Senator Cantwell

Senator Maria Cantwell Praises Aviation Security Compromise

Wednesday, November 14,2001

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D -WA) today praised the aviation security compromise to federalize the airport security screening workforce. The agreement clears the way for passage of the aviation security bill that had been stalled for weeks.

"Congress is taking an important step towards increasing aviation security by ensuring federal accountability," Cantwell said.

Today's agreement calls for the federal government to immediately begin taking over aviation security. The entire aviation security workforce would become federalized within nine months.

"Increased security means increased passenger confidence, resulting in more demand for air travel and commercial aircraft produced in our state. The American public deserves the safest and most secure air travel system in the world, and this is a move in the right direction," Cantwell concluded.