Turner transportation security bill passes House
Congressman Bob Turner (R-Brooklyn/Queens) recently announced the passing of his bill, H.R. 3857, the Public Transportation Security and Local Law Enforcement Support Act. With over 350 votes in favor, the bill passed with strong bipartisan support.
“I am proud that this bill passed with strong bipartisan support. H.R. 3857 will make it easier for law enforcement agencies to keep our transportation systems secure. This bill will streamline the process allowing specialized patrol teams, such as NYPD’s TORCH teams, to gain access to the funding necessary to keep them operational. This is a crucial step in helping the NYPD and other law enforcement agencies protect its citizens and visitors from all over the world,” he said.
Homeland Security Committee Chairman Rep. Peter King (R-Long Island) praised the bill as an important piece of legislation to improve mass transit security.
“Congressman Turner is to be commended for this legislation. Specialized patrol teams, such as NYPD’s TORCH teams, are vital and effective at bolstering the security of our vulnerable mass transit systems. Allowing transit systems to utilize Transportation Security Grant Program funding to sustain such teams will ensure that travelers are better protected,” King said.
H.R. 3857, which received 355 votes in favor, will allow Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP) funds to be used to sustain specialized patrol teams that secure our nation’s mass transit systems.
The elite units which receive TSGP funds are comprised of Emergency Service Unit officers with heavy weapons, canine units, and side officers from the NYPD Intelligence Division and Counterterrorism Bureau. These teams patrol subway, bus, and train stations; ferry terminals, city landmarks and other critical infrastructure.
Congressman Turner and serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and House Committee on Homeland Security.