Houses Passes Bill to Boost Airport Security, Reduce Lines

The House has passed an aviation bill aimed at boosting airport security, reducing screening lines and refunding fees to passengers whose luggage is lost or arrives late.

The bill also extends the Federal Aviation Administration’s programs for 14 months at current funding levels. It was approved by a voice vote.

House and Senate lawmakers reached an agreement last week clearing the way for passage after the chairman of the House Transportation Committee, Pennsylvania congressman Bill Shuster, agreed to temporarily drop his effort to remove air traffic control operations from the FAA and place them under a private, nonprofit corporation.

The Senate is expected to vote later this week. Action is required by Friday, when the FAA’s current operating authority expires.

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