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The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is working with US Customs to secure more pre-departure air cargo information sooner than now required, TSA administrator John Pistole recently told the congressional committee on transportation security.
"In January, TSA issued a proposed air carrier security programme change to increase security measures for air cargo to require 100 per cent screening of inbound international cargo on passenger aircraft by December 31. TSA expects to finalise the programmes in the spring of 2011 after evaluating industry comments," Mr Pistole told the committee.
Much of his talk concerned access to various grants to fund the rising level of security. "The Transit Security Grant Programme (TSGP) is a vital tool by which we enable and empower transit agency security providers to improve their practices. TSA works closely with the [Federal Emergency Management Agency] FEMA Grants Programme Division to apply funding to projects with the most effective risk mitigation to the most at-risk transit properties. In 2010, the TSGP provided US$273.4 million to the transit industry and a total of $1.6 billion since 2006. Similar, but smaller grant programmes have supported freight rail, over-the-road bus and trucking programmes," he said.
"TSA surface inspectors engage in all surface modes with activities ranging from inspecting rail yards and hazmat [hazardous materials] conveyances for regulatory compliance to assisting in the development of security and incident management plans," he said.
"One such security programme is the deployment of explosives detection canines, which are provided both through TSGP grant funding and appropriated TSA funds. TSA and the Department's Science and Technology Directorate are also partnering with Auburn University's canine programme to enhance the effectiveness of explosives detection," he said.
Mr Pistole also spoke of screening personnel. "In the last two years, over 1.6 million workers have enrolled in the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) programme. The TWIC programme includes a comprehensive security threat assessment, and the issuance of biometric credentials, which are now required to enter maritime facilities.
"TSA has processed 50,000 appeals and waiver requests, and continues to improve the adjudication process to shorten the time it takes to complete the security threat assessment process. After working through many challenges, TSA is concluding the TWIC Reader Pilot Programme, wrapping up formal data collection, and working on the report to congress. We continue to coordinate these efforts with the US Coast Guard to ensure a high level of security and operational effectiveness," Mr Pistole said.
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