Aviation Security Checkpoint Technology Fund Act of 2023
Impact
The bill is poised to have a significant impact on the aviation security landscape in the United States. By creating a stable source of funding specifically earmarked for aviation security technologies, it aims to facilitate the adoption of innovative solutions that can improve passenger safety and streamline the security process. The established fund will ensure that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has financial resources to invest in the latest security systems, potentially improving efficiency and reducing wait times at security checkpoints.
Summary
House Bill 3061, known as the Aviation Security Checkpoint Technology Fund Act of 2023, aims to enhance aviation security by establishing a dedicated fund within the Department of Homeland Security. This fund will be supported by fees collected under a specific section of the U.S. Code and is set to allocate at least $250,000,000 annually from these fees over five fiscal years, ending in 2028. The funds will be utilized to procure, deploy, and maintain advanced checkpoint technologies that enhance security at airport facilities across the nation.
Contention
Despite its intended benefits, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the costs associated with the funding mechanism and its implications for fees on airline passengers. Some stakeholders might express concerns that passing down the costs associated with these security improvements could lead to higher airfare prices. Additionally, there may be discussions around ensuring that the technologies funded are effective and necessary, as well as debates about accountability in how these funds are managed and allocated.
Advanced Aviation Act This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to redesignate the Office of NextGen as the Office of Advanced Aviation within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The new office duties include the coordination of rulemaking and approval processes on matters relating to advanced aviation systems (e.g., drones, supersonic aircraft technologies, counter-unmanned aircraft systems). The bill also establishes an Office of Advanced Integration within the Office of Advanced Aviation. Additionally, DOT must establish an Advanced Aviation Coordination Unit within the FAA whose responsibilities shall include the promotion of the safe and responsible integration of advanced aviation systems into the national airspace system. Further, DOT must redesignate the William J. Hughes Technical Center as the William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aviation. The center must establish and manage a program to evaluate new aviation-related technologies proposed to be used in the national airspace system and facilitate the integration of such technologies into the national airspace system.