49 U.S. Code § 114 - Transportation Security Administration

(a) In General.—

The Transportation Security Administration shall be an administration of the Department of Homeland Security.

(b) Leadership.—

(1) Head of transportation security administration.—

(A) Appointment.—

The head of the Administration shall be the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (referred to in this section as the “Administrator”). The Administrator shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(B) Qualifications.—

The Administrator must—

(i) be a citizen of the United States; and

(ii) have experience in a field directly related to transportation or security.

(C) Term.—

Effective with respect to any individual appointment by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, after the date of enactment of the TSA Modernization Act, the term of office of an individual appointed as the Administrator shall be 5 years. The term of office of an individual serving as the Administrator on the date of enactment of the TSA Modernization Act shall be 5 years beginning on the date that the Administrator began serving.

(2) Deputy administrator.—

(A) Appointment.—

There is established in the Transportation Security Administration a Deputy Administrator, who shall assist the Administrator in the management of the Transportation Security Administration. The Deputy Administrator shall be appointed by the President.

(B) Vacancy.—

The Deputy Administrator shall be Acting Administrator during the absence or incapacity of the Administrator or during a vacancy in the office of Administrator.

(C) Qualifications.—

The Deputy Administrator must—

(i) be a citizen of the United States; and

(ii) have experience in a field directly related to transportation or security.

(3) Chief counsel.—

(A) Appointment.—

There is established in the Transportation Security Administration a Chief Counsel, who shall advise the Administrator and other senior officials on all legal matters relating to the responsibilities, functions, and management of the Transportation Security Administration.

(B) Qualifications.—

The Chief Counsel must be a citizen of the United States.

(c) Limitation on Ownership of Stocks and Bonds.—

The Administrator may not own stock in or bonds of a transportation or security enterprise or an enterprise that makes equipment that could be used for security purposes.

(d) Functions.—

The Administrator shall be responsible for security in all modes of transportation, including—

(1) carrying out chapter 449, relating to civil aviation security, and related research and development activities; and

(2) security responsibilities over other modes of transportation that are exercised by the Department of Transportation.

(e) Screening Operations.—

The Administrator shall—

(1) be responsible for day-to-day Federal security screening operations for passenger air transportation and intrastate air transportation under sections 44901 and 44935;

(2) develop standards for the hiring and retention of security screening personnel;

(3) train and test security screening personnel; and

(4) be responsible for hiring and training personnel to provide security screening at all airports in the United States where screening is required under section 44901, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation and the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies and departments.

(f) Additional Duties and Powers.—

In addition to carrying out the functions specified in subsections (d) and (e), the Administrator shall—

(1) receive, assess, and distribute intelligence information related to transportation security;

(2) assess threats to transportation;

(3) develop policies, strategies, and plans for dealing with threats to transportation security;

(4) make other plans related to transportation security, including coordinating countermeasures with appropriate departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Government;

(5) serve as the primary liaison for transportation security to the intelligence and law enforcement communities;

(6) on a day-to-day basis, manage and provide operational guidance to the field security resources of the Administration, including Federal Security Managers as provided by section 44933;

(7) enforce security-related regulations and requirements;

(8) identify and undertake research and development activities necessary to enhance transportation security;

(9) inspect, maintain, and test security facilities, equipment, and systems;

(10) ensure the adequacy of security measures for the transportation of cargo;

(11) oversee the implementation, and ensure the adequacy, of security measures at airports and other transportation facilities;

(12) require background checks for airport security screening personnel, individuals with access to secure areas of airports, and other transportation security personnel;

(13) work in conjunction with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration with respect to any actions or activities that may affect aviation safety or air carrier operations;

(14) work with the International Civil Aviation Organization and appropriate aeronautic authorities of foreign governments under section 44907 to address security concerns on passenger flights by foreign air carriers in foreign air transportation;

(15) establish and maintain a National Deployment Office as required under section 44948 of this title; and

(16) carry out such other duties, and exercise such other powers, relating to transportation security as the Administrator considers appropriate, to the extent authorized by law.

(g) National Emergency Responsibilities.—

(1) In general.—

Subject to the direction and control of the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Administrator, during a national emergency, shall have the following responsibilities:

(A) To coordinate domestic transportation, including aviation, rail, and other surface transportation, and maritime transportation (including port security).

(B) To coordinate and oversee the transportation-related responsibilities of other departments and agencies of the Federal Government other than the Department of Defense and the military departments.

(C) To coordinate and provide notice to other departments and agencies of the Federal Government, and appropriate agencies of State and local governments, including departments and agencies for transportation, law enforcement, and border control, about threats to transportation.

(D) To carry out such other duties, and exercise such other powers, relating to transportation during a national emergency as the Secretary of Homeland Security shall prescribe.

(2) Authority of other departments and agencies.—

The authority of the Administrator under this subsection shall not supersede the authority of any other department or agency of the Federal Government under law with respect to transportation or transportation-related matters, whether or not during a national emergency.

(3) Circumstances.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall prescribe the circumstances constituting a national emergency for purposes of this subsection.

(h) Management of Security Information.—

In consultation with the Transportation Security Oversight Board, the Administrator shall—

(1) enter into memoranda of understanding with Federal agencies or other entities to share or otherwise cross-check as necessary data on individuals identified on Federal agency databases who may pose a risk to transportation or national security;

(2) establish procedures for notifying the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, appropriate State and local law enforcement officials, and airport or airline security officers of the identity of individuals known to pose, or suspected of posing, a risk of air piracy or terrorism or a threat to airline or passenger safety;

(3) in consultation with other appropriate Federal agencies and air carriers, establish policies and procedures requiring air carriers—

(A) to use information from government agencies to identify individuals on passenger lists who may be a threat to civil aviation or national security; and

(B) if such an individual is identified, notify appropriate law enforcement agencies, prevent the individual from boarding an aircraft, or take other appropriate action with respect to that individual; and

(4) consider requiring passenger air carriers to share passenger lists with appropriate Federal agencies for the purpose of identifying individuals who may pose a threat to aviation safety or national security.

(i) View of NTSB.—

In taking any action under this section that could affect safety, the Administrator shall give great weight to the timely views of the National Transportation Safety Board.

(j) Acquisitions.—

(1) In general.—

The Administrator is authorized—

(A) to acquire (by purchase, lease, condemnation, or otherwise) such real property, or any interest therein, within and outside the continental United States, as the Administrator considers necessary;

(B) to acquire (by purchase, lease, condemnation, or otherwise) and to construct, repair, operate, and maintain such personal property (including office space and patents), or any interest therein, within and outside the continental United States, as the Administrator considers necessary;

(C) to lease to others such real and personal property and to provide by contract or otherwise for necessary facilities for the welfare of its employees and to acquire, maintain, and operate equipment for these facilities;

(D) to acquire services, including such personal services as the Secretary of Homeland Security determines necessary, and to acquire (by purchase, lease, condemnation, or otherwise) and to construct, repair, operate, and maintain research and testing sites and facilities; and

(E) in cooperation with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, to utilize the research and development facilities of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(2) Title.—

Title to any property or interest therein acquired pursuant to this subsection shall be held by the Government of the United States.

(k) Transfers of Funds.—

The Administrator is authorized to accept transfers of unobligated balances and unexpended balances of funds appropriated to other Federal agencies (as such term is defined in section 551(1) of title 5) to carry out functions assigned by law to the Administrator.

(l) Regulations.—

(1) In general.—

The Administrator is authorized to issue, rescind, and revise such regulations as are necessary to carry out the functions of the Administration.

(2) Emergency procedures.—

(A) In general.—

Notwithstanding any other provision of law or executive order (including an executive order requiring a cost-benefit analysis), if the Administrator determines that a regulation or security directive must be issued immediately in order to protect transportation security, the Administrator shall issue the regulation or security directive without providing notice or an opportunity for comment and without prior approval of the Secretary.

(B) Review by transportation security oversight board.—

Any regulation or security directive issued under this paragraph shall be subject to review by the Transportation Security Oversight Board established under section 115. Any regulation or security directive issued under this paragraph shall remain effective for a period not to exceed 90 days unless ratified or disapproved by the Board or rescinded by the Administrator.

(3) Factors to consider.—

In determining whether to issue, rescind, or revise a regulation under this section, the Administrator shall consider, as a factor in the final determination, whether the costs of the regulation are excessive in relation to the enhancement of security the regulation will provide. The Administrator may waive requirements for an analysis that estimates the number of lives that will be saved by the regulation and the monetary value of such lives if the Administrator determines that it is not feasible to make such an estimate.

(4) Airworthiness objections by faa.—

(A) In general.—

The Administrator shall not take an aviation security action under this title if the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration notifies the Administrator that the action could adversely affect the airworthiness of an aircraft.

(B) Review by secretary.—

Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may take such an action, after receiving a notification concerning the action from the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under subparagraph (A), if the Secretary of Transportation subsequently approves the action.

(m) Personnel and Services; Cooperation by Administrator.—

(1) Authority of administrator.—

In carrying out the functions of the Administration, the Administrator shall have the same authority as is provided to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under subsections (l) and (m) of section 106.

(2) Authority of agency heads.—

The head of a Federal agency shall have the same authority to provide services, supplies, equipment, personnel, and facilities to the Administrator as the head has to provide services, supplies, equipment, personnel, and facilities to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under section 106(m).

(n) Personnel Management System.—

(1) In general.—

The personnel management system established by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under section 40122 shall apply to employees of the Transportation Security Administration, or, subject to the requirements of such section, the Administrator may make such modifications to the personnel management system with respect to such employees as the Administrator considers appropriate, such as adopting aspects of other personnel systems of the Department of Homeland Security.

(2) Meritorious executive or distinguished executive rank awards.—

Notwithstanding section 40122(g)(2) of this title, the applicable sections of title 5 shall apply to the Transportation Security Administration personnel management system, except that—

(A) for purposes of applying such provisions to the personnel management system—

(i) the term “agency” means the Department of Homeland Security;

(ii) the term “senior executive” means a Transportation Security Administration executive serving on a Transportation Security Executive Service appointment;

(iii) the term “career appointee” means a Transportation Security Administration executive serving on a career Transportation Security Executive Service appointment; and

(iv) The [1] term “senior career employee” means a Transportation Security Administration employee covered by the Transportation Security Administration Core Compensation System at the L or M pay band;

(B) receipt by a career appointee or a senior career employee of the rank of Meritorious Executive or Meritorious Senior Professional entitles the individual to a lump-sum payment of an amount equal to 20 percent of annual basic pay, which shall be in addition to the basic pay paid under the applicable Transportation Security Administration pay system; and

(C) receipt by a career appointee or a senior career employee of the rank of Distinguished Executive or Distinguished Senior Professional entitles the individual to a lump-sum payment of an amount equal to 35 percent of annual basic pay, which shall be in addition to the basic pay paid under the applicable Transportation Security Administration pay system.

(3) Definition of applicable sections of title 5.—

In this subsection, the term “applicable sections of title 5” means—

(A) subsections (b), (c) and (d) of section 4507 of title 5; and

(B) subsections (b) and (c) of section 4507a of title 5.

(o) Authority of Inspector General.—

The Transportation Security Administration shall be subject to the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) and other laws relating to the authority of the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security.

(p) Law Enforcement Powers.—

(1) In general.—

The Administrator may designate an employee of the Transportation Security Administration or other Federal agency to serve as a law enforcement officer.

(2) Powers.—

While engaged in official duties of the Administration as required to fulfill the responsibilities under this section, a law enforcement officer designated under paragraph (1) may—

(A) carry a firearm;

(B) make an arrest without a warrant for any offense against the United States committed in the presence of the officer, or for any felony cognizable under the laws of the United States if the officer has probable cause to believe that the person to be arrested has committed or is committing the felony; and

(C) seek and execute warrants for arrest or seizure of evidence issued under the authority of the United States upon probable cause that a violation has been committed.

(3) Guidelines on exercise of authority.—

The authority provided by this subsection shall be exercised in accordance with guidelines prescribed by the Administrator, in consultation with the Attorney General of the United States, and shall include adherence to the Attorney General’s policy on use of deadly force.

(4) Revocation or suspension of authority.—

The powers authorized by this subsection may be rescinded or suspended should the Attorney General determine that the Administrator has not complied with the guidelines prescribed in paragraph (3) and conveys the determination in writing to the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Administrator.

(q) Authority To Exempt.—

The Administrator may grant an exemption from a regulation prescribed in carrying out this section if the Administrator determines that the exemption is in the public interest.

(r) Nondisclosure of Security Activities.—

(1) In general.—

Notwithstanding section 552 of title 5, the Administrator shall prescribe regulations prohibiting the disclosure of information obtained or developed in carrying out security under authority of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (Public Law 107–71) or under chapter 449 of this title if the Administrator decides that disclosing the information would—

(A) be an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;

(B) reveal a trade secret or privileged or confidential commercial or financial information; or

(C) be detrimental to the security of transportation.

(2) Availability of information to congress.—

Paragraph (1) does not authorize information to be withheld from a committee of Congress authorized to have the information.

(3) Limitation on transferability of duties.—

Except as otherwise provided by law, the Administrator may not transfer a duty or power under this subsection to another department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States.

(4) Limitations.—

Nothing in this subsection, or any other provision of law, shall be construed to authorize the designation of information as sensitive security information (as defined in section 1520.5 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations)—

(A) to conceal a violation of law, inefficiency, or administrative error;

(B) to prevent embarrassment to a person, organization, or agency;

(C) to restrain competition; or

(D) to prevent or delay the release of information that does not require protection in the interest of transportation security, including basic scientific research information not clearly related to transportation security.

(s) Transportation Security Strategic Planning.—

(1) In general.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall develop, prepare, implement, and update, as needed—

(A) a National Strategy for Transportation Security; and

(B) transportation modal security plans addressing security risks, including threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences, for aviation, railroad, ferry, highway, maritime, pipeline, public transportation, over-the-road bus, and other transportation infrastructure assets.

(2) Role of secretary of transportation.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall work jointly with the Secretary of Transportation in developing, revising, and updating the documents required by paragraph (1).

(3) Contents of national strategy for transportation security.—

The National Strategy for Transportation Security shall include the following:

(A) An identification and evaluation of the transportation assets in the United States that, in the interests of national security and commerce, must be protected from attack or disruption by terrorist or other hostile forces, including modal security plans for aviation, bridge and tunnel, commuter rail and ferry, highway, maritime, pipeline, rail, mass transit, over-the-road bus, and other public transportation infrastructure assets that could be at risk of such an attack or disruption.

(B) The development of risk-based priorities, based on risk assessments conducted or received by the Secretary of Homeland Security (including assessments conducted under the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007) across all transportation modes and realistic deadlines for addressing security needs associated with those assets referred to in subparagraph (A).

(C) The most appropriate, practical, and cost-effective means of defending those assets against threats to their security.

(D) A forward-looking strategic plan that sets forth the agreed upon roles and missions of Federal, State, regional, local, and tribal authorities and establishes mechanisms for encouraging cooperation and participation by private sector entities, including nonprofit employee labor organizations, in the implementation of such plan.

(E) A comprehensive delineation of prevention, response, and recovery responsibilities and issues regarding threatened and executed acts of terrorism within the United States and threatened and executed acts of terrorism outside the United States to the extent such acts affect United States transportation systems.

(F) A prioritization of research and development objectives that support transportation security needs, giving a higher priority to research and development directed toward protecting vital transportation assets. Transportation security research and development projects shall be based, to the extent practicable, on such prioritization. Nothing in the preceding sentence shall be construed to require the termination of any research or development project initiated by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Secretary of Transportation before the date of enactment of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.

(G) A 3- and 10-year budget for Federal transportation security programs that will achieve the priorities of the National Strategy for Transportation Security.

(H) Methods for linking the individual transportation modal security plans and the programs contained therein, and a plan for addressing the security needs of intermodal transportation.

(I) Transportation modal security plans described in paragraph (1)(B), including operational recovery plans to expedite, to the maximum extent practicable, the return to operation of an adversely affected transportation system following a major terrorist attack on that system or other incident. These plans shall be coordinated with the resumption of trade protocols required under section 202 of the SAFE Port Act (6 U.S.C. 942) and the National Maritime Transportation Security Plan required under section 70103(a) of title 46.

(4) Submission of plans.—

(A) In general.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit the National Strategy for Transportation Security, including the transportation modal security plans and any revisions to the National Strategy for Transportation Security and the transportation modal security plans, to appropriate congressional committees not less frequently than April 1 of each even-numbered year.

(B) Periodic progress report.—

(i) Requirement for report.—

Each year, in conjunction with the submission of the budget to Congress under section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees an assessment of the progress made on implementing the National Strategy for Transportation Security, including the transportation modal security plans.

(ii) Content.—

Each progress report submitted under this subparagraph shall include, at a minimum, the following:

(I) Recommendations for improving and implementing the National Strategy for Transportation Security and the transportation modal and intermodal security plans that the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, considers appropriate.

(II) An accounting of all grants for transportation security, including grants and contracts for research and development, awarded by the Secretary of Homeland Security in the most recent fiscal year and a description of how such grants accomplished the goals of the National Strategy for Transportation Security.

(III) An accounting of all—

(aa) funds requested in the President’s budget submitted pursuant to section 1105 of title 31 for the most recent fiscal year for transportation security, by mode;

(bb) personnel working on transportation security by mode, including the number of contractors; and

(cc) information on the turnover in the previous year among senior staff of the Department of Homeland Security, including component agencies, working on transportation security issues. Such information shall include the number of employees who have permanently left the office, agency, or area in which they worked, and the amount of time that they worked for the Department of Homeland Security.

(iii) Written explanation of transportation security activities not delineated in the national strategy for transportation security.—

At the end of each fiscal year, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a written explanation of any Federal transportation security activity that is inconsistent with the National Strategy for Transportation Security, including the amount of funds to be expended for the activity and the number of personnel involved.

(C) Classified material.—

Any part of the National Strategy for Transportation Security or the transportation modal security plans that involve information that is properly classified under criteria established by Executive order shall be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees separately in a classified format.

(D) Appropriate congressional committees defined.—

In this subsection, the term “appropriate congressional committees” means the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate.

(5) Priority Status.—

(A) In general.—

The National Strategy for Transportation Security shall be the governing document for Federal transportation security efforts.

(B) Other plans and reports.—

The National Strategy for Transportation Security shall include, as an integral part or as an appendix—

(i) the current National Maritime Transportation Security Plan under section 70103 of title 46;

(ii) the report required by section 44938 of this title;

(iii) transportation modal security plans required under this section;

(iv) the transportation sector specific plan required under Homeland Security Presidential Directive–7; and

(v) any other transportation security plan or report that the Secretary of Homeland Security determines appropriate for inclusion.

(6) Coordination.—

In carrying out the responsibilities under this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation, shall consult, as appropriate, with Federal, State, and local agencies, tribal governments, private sector entities (including nonprofit employee labor organizations), institutions of higher learning, and other entities.

(7) Plan distribution.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall make available and appropriately publicize an unclassified version of the National Strategy for Transportation Security, including its component transportation modal security plans, to Federal, State, regional, local and tribal authorities, transportation system owners or operators, private sector stakeholders, including nonprofit employee labor organizations representing transportation employees, institutions of higher learning, and other appropriate entities.

(t) Transportation Security Information Sharing Plan.—

(1) Definitions.—

In this subsection:

(A) Appropriate congressional committees.—

The term “appropriate congressional committees” has the meaning given that term in subsection (s)(4)(E).

(B) Plan.—

The term “Plan” means the Transportation Security Information Sharing Plan established under paragraph (2).

(C) Public and private stakeholders.—

The term “public and private stakeholders” means Federal, State, and local agencies, tribal governments, and appropriate private entities, including nonprofit employee labor organizations representing transportation employees.

(D) Transportation security information.—

The term “transportation security information” means information relating to the risks to transportation modes, including aviation, public transportation, railroad, ferry, highway, maritime, pipeline, and over-the-road bus transportation, and may include specific and general intelligence products, as appropriate.

(2) Establishment of plan.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the program manager of the information sharing environment established under section 1016 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (6 U.S.C. 485), the Secretary of Transportation, and public and private stakeholders, shall establish a Transportation Security Information Sharing Plan. In establishing the Plan, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall gather input on the development of the Plan from private and public stakeholders and the program manager of the information sharing environment established under section 1016 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (6 U.S.C. 485).

(3) Purpose of plan.—

The Plan shall promote sharing of transportation security information between the Department of Homeland Security and public and private stakeholders.

(4) Content of plan.—

The Plan shall include—

(A) a description of how intelligence analysts within the Department of Homeland Security will coordinate their activities within the Department and with other Federal, State, and local agencies, and tribal governments, including coordination with existing modal information sharing centers and the center described in section 1410 of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007;

(B) the establishment of a point of contact, which may be a single point of contact within the Department of Homeland Security, for each mode of transportation for the sharing of transportation security information with public and private stakeholders, including an explanation and justification to the appropriate congressional committees if the point of contact established pursuant to this subparagraph differs from the agency within the Department of Homeland Security that has the primary authority, or has been delegated such authority by the Secretary of Homeland Security, to regulate the security of that transportation mode;

(C) a reasonable deadline by which the Plan will be implemented; and

(D) a description of resource needs for fulfilling the Plan.

(5) Coordination with information sharing.—

The Plan shall be—

(A) implemented in coordination, as appropriate, with the program manager for the information sharing environment established under section 1016 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (6 U.S.C. 485); and

(B) consistent with the establishment of the information sharing environment and any policies, guidelines, procedures, instructions, or standards established by the President or the program manager for the implementation and management of the information sharing environment.

(6) Annual report on plan.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall annually submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report containing the Plan.

(7) Security clearances.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall, to the greatest extent practicable, take steps to expedite the security clearances needed for designated public and private stakeholders to receive and obtain access to classified information distributed under this section, as appropriate.

(8) Classification of material.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security, to the greatest extent practicable, shall provide designated public and private stakeholders with transportation security information in an unclassified format.

(u) Enforcement of Regulations and Orders of the Secretary of Homeland Security.—

(1) Application of subsection.—

(A) In general.—

This subsection applies to the enforcement of regulations prescribed, and orders issued, by the Secretary of Homeland Security under a provision of chapter 701 of title 46 and under a provision of this title other than a provision of chapter 449 (in this subsection referred to as an “applicable provision of this title”).

(B) Violations of chapter 449.—

The penalties for violations of regulations prescribed and orders issued by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Administrator under chapter 449 of this title are provided under chapter 463 of this title.

(C) Nonapplication to certain violations.—

(i) Paragraphs (2) through (5) do not apply to violations of regulations prescribed, and orders issued, by the Secretary of Homeland Security under a provision of this title—

(I) involving the transportation of personnel or shipments of materials by contractors where the Department of Defense has assumed control and responsibility;

(II) by a member of the armed forces of the United States when performing official duties; or

(III) by a civilian employee of the Department of Defense when performing official duties.

(ii) Violations described in subclause (I), (II), or (III) of clause (i) shall be subject to penalties as determined by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of Defense’s designee.

(2) Civil penalty.—

(A) In general.—

A person is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for a violation of a regulation prescribed, or order issued, by the Secretary of Homeland Security under an applicable provision of this title.

(B) Repeat violations.—

A separate violation occurs under this paragraph for each day the violation continues.

(3) Administrative imposition of civil penalties.—

(A) In general.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security may impose a civil penalty for a violation of a regulation prescribed, or order issued, under an applicable provision of this title. The Secretary shall give written notice of the finding of a violation and the penalty.

(B) Scope of civil action.—

In a civil action to collect a civil penalty imposed by the Secretary of Homeland Security under this subsection, a court may not re-examine issues of liability or the amount of the penalty.

(C) Jurisdiction.—

The district courts of the United States shall have exclusive jurisdiction of civil actions to collect a civil penalty imposed by the Secretary of Homeland Security under this subsection if—

(i) the amount in controversy is more than—

(I) $400,000, if the violation was committed by a person other than an individual or small business concern; or

(II) $50,000 if the violation was committed by an individual or small business concern;

(ii) the action is in rem or another action in rem based on the same violation has been brought; or

(iii) another action has been brought for an injunction based on the same violation.

(D) Maximum penalty.—

The maximum civil penalty the Secretary of Homeland Security administratively may impose under this paragraph is—

(i) $400,000, if the violation was committed by a person other than an individual or small business concern; or

(ii) $50,000, if the violation was committed by an individual or small business concern.

(E) Notice and opportunity to request hearing.—

Before imposing a penalty under this section the Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide to the person against whom the penalty is to be imposed—

(i) written notice of the proposed penalty; and

(ii) the opportunity to request a hearing on the proposed penalty, if the Secretary of Homeland Security receives the request not later than 30 days after the date on which the person receives notice.

(4) Compromise and setoff.—

(A) The Secretary of Homeland Security may compromise the amount of a civil penalty imposed under this subsection.

(B) The Government may deduct the amount of a civil penalty imposed or compromised under this subsection from amounts it owes the person liable for the penalty.

(5) Investigations and proceedings.—

Chapter 461 shall apply to investigations and proceedings brought under this subsection to the same extent that it applies to investigations and proceedings brought with respect to aviation security duties designated to be carried out by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

(6) Definitions.—

In this subsection:

(A) Person.—

The term “person” does not include—

(i) the United States Postal Service; or

(ii) the Department of Defense.

(B) Small business concern.—

The term “small business concern” has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

(7) Enforcement transparency.—

(A) In general.—

The Secretary of Homeland Security shall—

(i) provide an annual summary to the public of all enforcement actions taken by the Secretary under this subsection; and

(ii) include in each such summary the docket number of each enforcement action, the type of alleged violation, the penalty or penalties proposed, and the final assessment amount of each penalty.

(B) Electronic availability.—

Each summary under this paragraph shall be made available to the public by electronic means.

(C) Relationship to the freedom of information act and the privacy act.—

Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require disclosure of information or records that are exempt from disclosure under sections 552 or 552a of title 5.

(v) Authorization of Appropriations.—

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Transportation Security Administration for salaries, operations, and maintenance of the Administration—

(1) $7,849,247,000 for fiscal year 2019;

(2) $7,888,494,000 for fiscal year 2020; and

(3) $7,917,936,000 for fiscal year 2021.

(w) Leadership and Organization.—

(1) In general.—

For each of the areas described in paragraph (2), the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall appoint at least 1 individual who shall—

(A) report directly to the Administrator or the Administrator’s designated direct report; and

(B) be responsible and accountable for that area.

(2) Areas described.—

The areas described in this paragraph are as follows:

(A) Aviation security operations and training, including risk-based, adaptive security—

(i) focused on airport checkpoint and baggage screening operations;

(ii) workforce training and development programs; and

(iii) ensuring compliance with aviation security law, including regulations, and other specialized programs designed to secure air transportation.

(B) Surface transportation security operations and training, including risk-based, adaptive security—

(i) focused on accomplishing security systems assessments;

(ii) reviewing and prioritizing projects for appropriated surface transportation security grants;

(iii) operator compliance with surface transportation security law, including regulations, and voluntary industry standards; and

(iv) workforce training and development programs, and other specialized programs designed to secure surface transportation.

(C) Transportation industry engagement and planning, including the development, interpretation, promotion, and oversight of a unified effort regarding risk-based, risk-reducing security policies and plans (including strategic planning for future contingencies and security challenges) between government and transportation stakeholders, including airports, domestic and international airlines, general aviation, air cargo, mass transit and passenger rail, freight rail, pipeline, highway and motor carriers, and maritime.

(D) International strategy and operations, including agency efforts to work with international partners to secure the global transportation network.

(E) Trusted and registered traveler programs, including the management and marketing of the agency’s trusted traveler initiatives, including the PreCheck Program, and coordination with trusted traveler programs of other Department of Homeland Security agencies and the private sector.

(F) Technology acquisition and deployment, including the oversight, development, testing, evaluation, acquisition, deployment, and maintenance of security technology and other acquisition programs.

(G) Inspection and compliance, including the integrity, efficiency and effectiveness of the agency’s workforce, operations, and programs through objective audits, covert testing, inspections, criminal investigations, and regulatory compliance.

(H) Civil rights, liberties, and traveler engagement, including ensuring that agency employees and the traveling public are treated in a fair and lawful manner consistent with Federal laws and regulations protecting privacy and prohibiting discrimination and reprisal.

(I) Legislative and public affairs, including communication and engagement with internal and external audiences in a timely, accurate, and transparent manner, and development and implementation of strategies within the agency to achieve congressional approval or authorization of agency programs and policies.

(3) Notification.—

The Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress—

(A) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the TSA Modernization Act, a list of the names of the individuals appointed under paragraph (1); and

(B) an update of the list not later than 5 days after any new individual is appointed under paragraph (1).

(x) Transportation Security Preparedness Plan.—

(1) In general.—

Not later than two years after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Administrator, in coordination with the Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Homeland Security, and in consultation with the partners identified under paragraphs (3)(A)(i) through (3)(A)(iv), shall develop a transportation security preparedness plan to address the event of a communicable disease outbreak. The Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall ensure such plan aligns with relevant Federal plans and strategies for communicable disease outbreaks.

(2) Considerations.—

In developing the plan required under paragraph (1), the Secretary, acting through the Administrator, shall consider each of the following:

(A) The findings of the survey required under section 6411 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.

(B) The findings of the analysis required under section 6414 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.

(C) The plan required under section 6415 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.

(D) All relevant reports and recommendations regarding the Administration’s response to the COVID–19 pandemic, including any reports and recommendations issued by the Comptroller General and the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security.

(E) Lessons learned from Federal interagency efforts during the COVID–19 pandemic.

(3) Contents of plan.—

The plan developed under paragraph (1) shall include each of the following:

(A) Plans for communicating and collaborating in the event of a communicable disease outbreak with the following partners:

(i) Appropriate Federal departments and agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Labor, and appropriate interagency task forces.

(ii) The workforce of the Administration, including through the labor organization certified as the exclusive representative of full- and part-time non-supervisory Administration personnel carrying out screening functions under section 44901 of this title.

(iii) International partners, including the International Civil Aviation Organization and foreign governments, airports, and air carriers.

(iv) Public and private stakeholders, as such term is defined under subsection (t)(1)(C).

(v) The traveling public.

(B) Plans for protecting the safety of the Transportation Security Administration workforce, including—

(i) reducing the risk of communicable disease transmission at screening checkpoints and within the Administration’s workforce related to the Administration’s transportation security operations and mission;

(ii) ensuring the safety and hygiene of screening checkpoints and other workstations;

(iii) supporting equitable and appropriate access to relevant vaccines, prescriptions, and other medical care; and

(iv) tracking rates of employee illness, recovery, and death.

(C) Criteria for determining the conditions that may warrant the integration of additional actions in the aviation screening system in response to the communicable disease outbreak and a range of potential roles and responsibilities that align with such conditions.

(D) Contingency plans for temporarily adjusting checkpoint operations to provide for passenger and employee safety while maintaining security during the communicable disease outbreak.

(E) Provisions setting forth criteria for establishing an interagency task force or other standing engagement platform with other appropriate Federal departments and agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Transportation, to address such communicable disease outbreak.

(F) A description of scenarios in which the Administrator should consider exercising authorities provided under subsection (g) and for what purposes.

(G) Considerations for assessing the appropriateness of issuing security directives and emergency amendments to regulated parties in various modes of transportation, including surface transportation, and plans for ensuring compliance with such measures.

(H) A description of any potential obstacles, including funding constraints and limitations to authorities, that could restrict the ability of the Administration to respond appropriately to a communicable disease outbreak.

(4) Dissemination.—

Upon development of the plan required under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall disseminate the plan to the partners identified under paragraph (3)(A) and to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

(5) Review of plan.—

Not later than two years after the date on which the plan is disseminated under paragraph (4), and biennially thereafter, the Secretary, acting through the Administrator and in coordination with the Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Homeland Security, shall review the plan and, after consultation with the partners identified under paragraphs (3)(A)(i) through (3)(A)(iv), update the plan as appropriate.

(Added Pub. L. 107–71, title I, § 101(a), Nov. 19, 2001, 115 Stat. 597; amended Pub. L. 107–296, title XVI, § 1601(b), title XVII, § 1707, Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2312, 2318; Pub. L. 108–7, div. I, title III, § 351(d), Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 420; Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, § 4001(a), Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3710; Pub. L. 110–53, title XII, §§ 1202, 1203(a), title XIII, § 1302(a), title XV, § 1503(a), Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 381, 383, 390, 425; Pub. L. 110–161, div. E, title V, § 568(a), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2092; Pub. L. 111–83, title V, § 561(c)(1), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2182; Pub. L. 114–301, § 2(d), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1514; Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, §§ 1903, 1904(a), (b)(1), 1905, 1909, 1988(c), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3543, 3544, 3546, 3549, 3623; Pub. L. 117–81, div. F, title LXIV, § 6412(a), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2409.)

---

[1]  So in original. Probably should not be capitalized.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The date of enactment of the TSA Modernization Act, referred to in subsecs. (b)(1)(C) and (w)(3)(A), is the date of enactment of title I of div. K of Pub. L. 115–254, which was approved Oct. 5, 2018.

The Inspector General Act of 1978, referred to in subsec. (o), is Pub. L. 95–452, Oct. 12, 1978, 92 Stat. 1101, which is set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

The Aviation and Transportation Security Act, referred to in subsec. (r)(1), is Pub. L. 107–71, Nov. 19, 2001, 115 Stat. 597. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2001 Amendment note set out under section 101 of this title and Tables.

The Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, referred to in subsec. (s)(3)(B), is Pub. L. 110–53, Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 266. Section 1410 of the Act is classified to section 1139 of Title 6, Domestic Security. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 2007 Amendment note set out under section 101 of Title 6 and Tables.

The date of enactment of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, referred to in subsec. (s)(3)(F), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 110–53, which was approved Aug. 3, 2007.

The date of the enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (x)(1), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 117–81, which was approved Dec. 27, 2021.

Section 6411 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, referred to in subsec. (x)(2)(A), is section 6411 of div. F of Pub. L. 117–81, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2409, which is not classified to the Code.

Section 6414 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, referred to in subsec. (x)(2)(B), is section 6414 of div. F of Pub. L. 117–81, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2412, which is not classified to the Code.

Section 6415 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022, referred to in subsec. (x)(2)(C), is section 6415 of Pub. L. 117–81, which is set out as a note under section 44901 of this title.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (x). Pub. L. 117–81 added subsec. (x).

2018—Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(a)(3), substituted “Administrator” for “Under Secretary” wherever appearing in subsecs. (c) to (n), (p), (q), and (r).

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(a)(1), substituted “Department of Homeland Security” for “Department of Transportation”.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(a)(2), amended subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows:

“(1) Appointment.—The head of the Administration shall be the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security. The Under Secretary shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

“(2) Qualifications.—The Under Secretary must—

“(A) be a citizen of the United States; and

“(B) have experience in a field directly related to transportation or security.

“(3) Term.—The term of office of an individual appointed as the Under Secretary shall be 5 years.”

Subsec. (f)(15), (16). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1988(c), added par. (15) and redesignated former par. (15) as (16).

Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(A)(i)(I), substituted “Subject to the direction and control of the Secretary of Homeland Security” for “Subject to the direction and control of the Secretary” in introductory provisions.

Subsecs. (g)(1)(D), (3), (j)(1)(D). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(A)(i)(II), (ii), (B), inserted “of Homeland Security” after “Secretary”.

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(C), substituted “functions assigned” for “functions transferred, on or after the date of enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act,”.

Subsec. (l)(4)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(D), substituted “Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under subparagraph (A)” for “Administrator under subparagraph (A)”.

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1909, inserted par. (1) designation and heading before “The personnel management system”, added pars. (2) and (3), and realigned margins.

Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(E), substituted “Department of Homeland Security” for “Department of Transportation”.

Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(F), substituted “Department of Homeland Security” for “Department of Transportation”.

Subsec. (p)(4). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(G), substituted “Secretary of Homeland Security” for “Secretary of Transportation”.

Subsec. (s)(3)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(i), inserted closing parenthesis after “Act of 2007”.

Subsec. (s)(4). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(I), substituted “Submission of plans” for “Submissions of plans to Congress” in heading.

Subsec. (s)(4)(A). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(IV)(bb), which directed amendment of subpar. (A) by substituting “The” for “After December 31, 2015, the”, was executed by making the substitution for “After December 31, 2005, the” to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(IV)(aa), substituted “In general” for “Subsequent versions” in heading.

Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(II), (III), redesignated subpar. (B) as (A) and struck out former subpar. (A). Prior to amendment, text of subpar. (A) read as follows: “The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit the National Strategy for Transportation Security, including the transportation modal security plans, developed under this subsection to the appropriate congressional committees not later than April 1, 2005.”

Subsec. (s)(4)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(III), redesignated subpar. (C) as (B). Former subpar. (B) redesignated (A).

Subsec. (s)(4)(B)(ii)(III)(cc). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(V), substituted “for the Department of Homeland Security” for “for the Department”.

Subsec. (s)(4)(C) to (E). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(H)(ii)(III), redesignated subpars. (D) and (E) as (C) and (D), respectively. Former subpar. (C) redesignated (B).

Subsec. (t). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(I), redesignated subsec. (u) as (t).

Subsec. (t)(1)(D), (E). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(J)(i), redesignated subpar. (E) as (D) and struck out former subpar. (D). Prior to amendment, text of subpar. (D) read as follows: “The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Homeland Security.”

Subsec. (t)(2). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(J)(ii), inserted “of Homeland Security” after “Plan, the Secretary”.

Subsec. (t)(4)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(J)(iii), inserted “of Homeland Security” after “agency within the Department” and after “Secretary”.

Subsec. (t)(6). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(J)(iv), amended par. (6) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows:

“(A) In general.—Not later than 150 days after the date of enactment of this subsection, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees, a report containing the Plan.

“(B) Annual report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on updates to and the implementation of the Plan.”

Subsec. (t)(7), (8). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(J)(v), inserted “of Homeland Security” after “Secretary”.

Subsec. (u). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(I), redesignated subsec. (v) as (u). Former subsec. (u) redesignated (t).

Subsec. (u)(1)(B). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(K)(i)(I), inserted “or the Administrator” after “Secretary of Homeland Security”.

Subsec. (u)(1)(C)(ii). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(K)(i)(II), substituted “Secretary of Defense’s designee” for “Secretary’s designee”.

Subsec. (u)(3)(B) to (E), (4)(A), (5). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(K)(i)(III), (ii), (iii), inserted “of Homeland Security” after “Secretary” wherever appearing.

Subsec. (u)(7)(A). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(K)(iv)(I), substituted “The Secretary of Homeland Security” for “Not later than December 31, 2008, and annually thereafter, the Secretary” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (u)(7)(D). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(K)(iv)(II), struck out subpar. (D). Text read as follows: “Not later than 180 days after the enactment of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, the Secretary shall provide a report to the public describing the enforcement process established under this subsection.”

Subsec. (v). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1904(b)(1)(I), redesignated subsec. (w) as (v). Former subsec. (v) redesignated (u).

Subsec. (w). Pub. L. 115–254, § 1905, added subsec. (w). Former subsec. (w) redesignated (v).

Pub. L. 115–254, § 1903, amended subsec. (w) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (w) related to authorization of appropriations for railroad, over-the-road bus and trucking, and hazardous material and pipeline security for fiscal years 2008 through 2011.

2016—Subsec. (u)(1)(A). Pub. L. 114–301, § 2(d)(1), substituted “subsection (s)(4)(E)” for “subsection (t)”.

Subsec. (u)(7) to (9). Pub. L. 114–301, § 2(d)(2), (3), redesignated pars. (8) and (9) as (7) and (8), respectively, and struck out former par. (7) which related to surveys and reports.

2009—Subsec. (r)(4). Pub. L. 111–83 added par. (4).

2007—Subsecs. (o) to (s). Pub. L. 110–161 redesignated subsecs. (p) to (s) as (o) to (r), respectively, and struck out former subsec. (o). Text of former subsec. (o) read as follows: “The acquisition management system established by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under section 40110 shall apply to acquisitions of equipment, supplies, and materials by the Transportation Security Administration, or, subject to the requirements of such section, the Under Secretary may make such modifications to the acquisition management system with respect to such acquisitions of equipment, supplies, and materials as the Under Secretary considers appropriate, such as adopting aspects of other acquisition management systems of the Department of Transportation.”

Subsec. (t). Pub. L. 110–161 redesignated subsec. (t) as (s).

Subsec. (t)(1)(B). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(a), amended subpar. (B) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (B) read as follows: “transportation modal security plans.”

Subsec. (t)(3)(B). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(b)(1), inserted “, based on risk assessments conducted or received by the Secretary of Homeland Security (including assessments conducted under the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007” after “risk-based priorities”.

Subsec. (t)(3)(D). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(b)(2), substituted “local, and tribal” for “and local” and “cooperation and participation by private sector entities, including nonprofit employee labor organizations,” for “private sector cooperation and participation”.

Subsec. (t)(3)(E). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(b)(3), substituted “prevention, response, and recovery” for “response and recovery” and inserted “and threatened and executed acts of terrorism outside the United States to the extent such acts affect United States transportation systems” before period at end.

Subsec. (t)(3)(F). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(b)(4), inserted at end “Transportation security research and development projects shall be based, to the extent practicable, on such prioritization. Nothing in the preceding sentence shall be construed to require the termination of any research or development project initiated by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Secretary of Transportation before the date of enactment of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.”

Subsec. (t)(3)(G) to (I). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(b)(5), added subpars. (G) to (I).

Subsec. (t)(4)(C)(i). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(c)(1)(A), inserted “, including the transportation modal security plans” before period at end.

Subsec. (t)(4)(C)(ii), (iii). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(c)(1)(B), added cls. (ii) and (iii) and struck out former cl. (ii). Text of former cl. (ii) read as follows: “Each progress report under this subparagraph shall include, at a minimum, recommendations for improving and implementing the National Strategy for Transportation Security and the transportation modal security plans that the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, considers appropriate.”

Subsec. (t)(4)(E). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(c)(2), added subpar. (E) and struck out former subpar. (E). Text of former subpar. (E) read as follows: “In this subsection, the term ‘appropriate congressional committees’ means the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Select Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate.”

Subsec. (t)(5)(B)(iv), (v). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(d), added cl. (iv) and redesignated former cl. (iv) as (v).

Subsec. (t)(6), (7). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1202(e), added pars. (6) and (7).

Subsec. (u). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1203(a), added subsec. (u).

Subsec. (v). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1302(a), added subsec. (v).

Subsec. (w). Pub. L. 110–53, § 1503(a), added subsec. (w).

2004—Subsec. (t). Pub. L. 108–458 added subsec. (t).

2003—Subsec. (q)(1). Pub. L. 108–7 inserted “or other Federal agency” after “Transportation Security Administration”.

2002—Subsec. (l)(2)(B). Pub. L. 107–296, § 1707, inserted “for a period not to exceed 90 days” after “effective” and “ratified or” before “disapproved”.

Subsec. (s). Pub. L. 107–296, § 1601(b), added subsec. (s).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1994, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3646, provided that:

“References relating to the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security in statutes, Executive orders, rules, regulations, directives, or delegations of authority that precede the effective date of this Act [meaning the date of enactment of Pub. L. 115–254, Oct. 5, 2018] shall be deemed to refer, as appropriate, to the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration.”

Effective Date of 2007 Amendment

Pub. L. 110–161, div. E, title V, § 568(b), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2092, provided that:

“The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall take effect 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 26, 2007].

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–458, title IV, § 4082, Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3732, provided that:

“This title [enacting section 44925 of this title, amending this section, sections 44903, 44904, 44909, 44917, 44923, 46301 to 46303, and 48301 of this title, and sections 70102 and 70103 of Title 46, Shipping, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 44703, 44901, 44913, 44917, 44923, 44925, and 44935 of this title, section 2751 of Title 22, Foreign Relations and Intercourse, and section 70101 of Title 46] shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 17, 2004].”

Effective Date of 2002 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 107–296 effective 60 days after Nov. 25, 2002, see section 4 of Pub. L. 107–296, set out as an Effective Date note under section 101 of Title 6, Domestic Security.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the Transportation Security Administration of the Department of Transportation, including the functions of the Secretary of Transportation, and of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security, relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 203(2), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

Authorization of Transportation Security Administration Personnel Details

Pub. L. 117–81, div. F, title LXIV, § 6413, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2412, provided that:

“(a) Coordination.—

Pursuant to sections 106(m) and 114(m) of title 49, United States Code, the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration may provide Transportation Security Administration personnel, who are not engaged in front line transportation security efforts, to other components of the Department and other Federal agencies to improve coordination with such components and agencies to prepare for, protect against, and respond to public health threats to the transportation security system of the United States.

“(b) Briefing.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], the Administrator shall brief the appropriate congressional committees regarding efforts to improve coordination with other components of the Department of Homeland Security and other Federal agencies to prepare for, protect against, and respond to public health threats to the transportation security system of the United States.”

Aviation Security

Pub. L. 117–81, div. F, title LXIV, § 6423(b), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2420, provided that:

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall develop and implement guidelines with respect to domestic and last point of departure airports to—

“(A) ensure the inclusion, as appropriate, of air carriers, domestic airport operators, and other transportation security stakeholders in the development and implementation of security directives and emergency amendments;

“(B) document input provided by air carriers, domestic airport operators, and other transportation security stakeholders during the security directive and emergency amendment, development, and implementation processes;

“(C) define a process, including timeframes, and with the inclusion of feedback from air carriers, domestic airport operators, and other transportation security stakeholders, for cancelling or incorporating security directives and emergency amendments into security programs;

“(D) conduct engagement with foreign partners on the implementation of security directives and emergency amendments, as appropriate, including recognition if existing security measures at a last point of departure airport are found to provide commensurate security as intended by potential new security directives and emergency amendments; and

“(E) ensure that new security directives and emergency amendments are focused on defined security outcomes.

“(2) Briefing to congress.—

Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2021], the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall brief the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the guidelines described in paragraph (1).

“(3) Decisions not subject to judicial review.—

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any action of the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration under paragraph (1) is not subject to judicial review.”

Emergency TSA Employee Leave Fund

Pub. L. 117–2, title VII, § 7104, Mar. 11, 2021, 135 Stat. 100, provided that:

“(a) Establishment; Appropriation.—

There is established in the Transportation Security Administration (in this section referred to as the ‘Administration’) the Emergency TSA Employee Leave Fund (in this section referred to as the ‘Fund’), to be administered by the Administrator of the Administration, for the purposes set forth in subsection (b). In addition to amounts otherwise available, there is appropriated for fiscal year 2021, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $13,000,000, which shall be deposited into the Fund and remain available through September 30, 2022.

“(b) Purpose.—

Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the Administration for the use of paid leave under this section by any employee of the Administration who is unable to work because the employee—

“(1) is subject to a Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVID–19;

“(2) has been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine due to concerns related to COVID–19;

“(3) is caring for an individual who is subject to such an order or has been so advised;

“(4) is experiencing symptoms of COVID–19 and seeking a medical diagnosis;

“(5) is caring for a son or daughter of such employee if the school or place of care of the son or daughter has been closed, if the school of such son or daughter requires or makes optional a virtual learning instruction model or requires or makes optional a hybrid of in-person and virtual learning instruction models, or the child care provider of such son or daughter is unavailable, due to COVID–19 precautions;

“(6) is experiencing any other substantially similar condition;

“(7) is caring for a family member with a mental or physical disability or who is 55 years of age or older and incapable of self-care, without regard to whether another individual other than the employee is available to care for such family member, if the place of care for such family member is closed or the direct care provider is unavailable due to COVID–19; or

“(8) is obtaining immunization related to COVID–19 or is recovering from any injury, disability, illness, or condition related to such immunization.

“(c) Limitations.—

“(1) Period of availability.—

Paid leave under this section may only be provided to and used by an employee of the Administration during the period beginning on the date of enactment of this section [Mar. 11, 2021] and ending on September 30, 2021.

“(2) Total hours; amount.—

Paid leave under this section—

“(A) shall be provided to an employee of the Administration in an amount not to exceed 600 hours of paid leave for each full-time employee, and in the case of a part-time employee, employee on an uncommon tour of duty, or employee with a seasonal work schedule, in an amount not to exceed the proportional equivalent of 600 hours to the extent amounts in the Fund remain available for reimbursement;

“(B) shall be paid at the same hourly rate as other leave payments; and

“(C) may not be provided to an employee if the leave would result in payments greater than $2,800 in aggregate for any biweekly pay period for a full-time employee, or a proportionally equivalent biweekly limit for a part-time employee.

“(3) Relationship to other leave.—

Paid leave under this section—

“(A) is in addition to any other leave provided to an employee of the Administration; and

“(B) may not be used by an employee of the Administration concurrently with any other paid leave.

“(4) Calculation of retirement benefit.—

Any paid leave provided to an employee of the Administration under this section shall reduce the total service used to calculate any Federal civilian retirement benefit.”

Deemed References to Chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51

General references to “this title” deemed to refer also to chapters 509 and 511 of Title 51, National and Commercial Space Programs, see section 4(d)(8) of Pub. L. 111–314, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Transmittals to Congress

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1910, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3550, provided that:

“With regard to each report, legislative proposal, or other communication of the Executive Branch related to the TSA and required to be submitted to Congress or the appropriate committees of Congress, the Administrator shall transmit such communication directly to the appropriate committees of Congress.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1910 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Third Party Testing and Verification of Screening Technology

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1911, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3550, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

In carrying out the responsibilities under section 114(f)(9) [probably means section 114(f)(9) of Title 10, United States Code], the Administrator shall develop and implement, not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], a program to enable a vendor of related security screening technology to obtain testing and verification, including as an alternative to the TSA’s test and evaluation process, by an appropriate third party, of such technology before procurement or deployment.

“(b) Detection Testing.—

“(1) In general.—

The third party testing and verification program authorized under subsection (a) shall include detection testing to evaluate the performance of the security screening technology system regarding the probability of detection, the probability of false alarm, and such other indicators that the system is able to meet the TSA’s mission needs.

“(2) Results.—

The results of the third party detection testing under paragraph (1) shall be considered final if the results are approved by the Administration in accordance with approval standards developed by the Administrator.

“(3) Coordination with final testing.—

To the extent practicable, but without compromising the integrity of the TSA test and evaluation process, the Administrator shall coordinate the third party detection testing under paragraph (1) with any subsequent, final Federal Government testing.

“(4) International standards.—

To the extent practicable and permissible under law and considering the national security interests of the United States, the Administrator shall—

“(A) share detection testing information and standards with appropriate international partners; and

“(B) coordinate with the appropriate international partners to align TSA testing and evaluation with relevant international standards to maximize the capability to detect explosives and other threats.

“(c) Operational Testing.—

“(1) In general.—

Subject to paragraph (2), the third party testing and verification program authorized under subsection (a) shall include operational testing.

“(2) Limitation.—

Third party operational testing under paragraph (1) may not exceed 1 year.

“(d) Alternative.—

Third party testing under subsection (a) shall replace as an alternative, at the discretion of the Administrator, the testing at the TSA Systems Integration Facility, including testing for—

“(1) health and safety factors;

“(2) operator interface;

“(3) human factors;

“(4) environmental factors;

“(5) throughput;

“(6) reliability, maintainability, and availability factors; and

“(7) interoperability.

“(e) Testing and Verification Framework.—

“(1) In general.—

The Administrator shall—

“(A) establish a framework for the third party testing and for verifying a security technology is operationally effective and able to meet the TSA’s mission needs before it may enter or re-enter, as applicable, the operational context at an airport or other transportation facility;

“(B) use phased implementation to allow the TSA and the third party to establish best practices; and

“(C) oversee the third party testing and evaluation framework.

“(2) Recommendations.—

The Administrator shall request ASAC’s Security Technology Subcommittee, in consultation with representatives of the security manufacturers industry, to develop and submit to the Administrator recommendations for the third party testing and verification framework.

“(f) Field Testing.—

The Administrator shall prioritize the field testing and evaluation, including by third parties, of security technology and equipment at airports and on site at security technology manufacturers whenever possible as an alternative to the TSA Systems Integration Facility.

“(g) Appropriate Third Parties.—

“(1) Citizenship requirement.—

An appropriate third party under subsection (a) shall be—

“(A) if an individual, a citizen of the United States; or

“(B) if an entity, owned and controlled by a citizen of the United States.

“(2) Waiver.—

The Administrator may waive the requirement under paragraph (1)(B) if the entity is a United States subsidiary of a parent company that has implemented a foreign ownership, control, or influence mitigation plan that has been approved by the Defense Security Service [now Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency] of the Department of Defense before applying to provide third party testing. The Administrator may reject any application to provide third party testing under subsection (a) submitted by an entity that requires a waiver under this paragraph.

“(3) Conflicts of interest.—

The Administrator shall ensure, to the extent possible, that an entity providing third party testing under this section does not have a contractual, business, or other pecuniary interest (exclusive of any such testing) in—

“(A) the security screening technology subject to such testing; or

“(B) the vendor of such technology.

“(h) GAO Review.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a study on the third party testing program developed under this section[.]

“(2) Review.—

The study under paragraph (1) shall include a review of the following:

“(A) Any efficiencies or gains in effectiveness achieved in TSA operations, including technology acquisition or screening operations, as a result of such program.

“(B) The degree to which the TSA conducts timely and regular oversight of the appropriate third parties engaged in such testing.

“(C) The effect of such program on the following:

“(i) The introduction of innovative detection technologies into security screening operations.

“(ii) The availability of testing for technologies developed by small to medium sized businesses.

“(D) Any vulnerabilities associated with such program, including with respect to the following:

“(i) National security.

“(ii) Any conflicts of interest between the appropriate third parties engaged in such testing and the entities providing such technologies to be tested.

“(iii) Waste, fraud, and abuse.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1911 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Transportation Security Administration Systems Integration Facility

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1912, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3552, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

The Administrator shall continue to operate the Transportation Security Administration Systems Integration Facility (referred to in this section as the ‘TSIF’) for the purposes of testing and evaluating advanced transportation security screening technologies related to the mission of the TSA.

“(b) Requirements.—

The TSIF shall—

“(1) evaluate the technologies described in subsection (a) to enhance the security of transportation systems through screening and threat mitigation and detection;

“(2) test the technologies described in subsection (a) to support identified mission needs of the TSA and to meet requirements for acquisitions and procurement;

“(3) to the extent practicable, provide original equipment manufacturers with test plans to minimize requirement interpretation disputes and adhere to provided test plans;

“(4) collaborate with other technical laboratories and facilities for purposes of augmenting the capabilities of the TSIF;

“(5) deliver advanced transportation security screening technologies that enhance the overall security of domestic transportation systems; and

“(6) to the extent practicable, provide funding and promote efforts to enable participation by a small business concern (as the term is described under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632)) that—

“(A) has an advanced technology or capability; but

“(B) does not have adequate resources to participate in testing and evaluation processes.

“(c) Staffing and Resource Allocation.—

The Administrator shall ensure adequate staffing and resource allocations for the TSIF in a manner that—

“(1) prevents unnecessary delays in the testing and evaluation of advanced transportation security screening technologies for acquisitions and procurement determinations;

“(2) ensures the issuance of final paperwork certification no later than 45 days after the date such testing and evaluation has concluded; and

“(3) ensures collaboration with technology stakeholders to close capabilities gaps in transportation security.

“(d) Deadline.—

“(1) In general.—

The Administrator shall notify the appropriate committees of Congress if testing and evaluation by the TSIF of an advanced transportation security screening technology under this section exceeds 180 days from the delivery date.

“(2) Notification.—

The notification under paragraph (1) shall include—

“(A) information relating to the delivery date;

“(B) a justification for why the testing and evaluation process has exceeded 180 days; and

“(C) the estimated date for completion of such testing and evaluation.

“(3) Definition of delivery date.—

In this subsection, the term ‘delivery date’ means the date that the owner of an advanced transportation security screening technology—

“(A) after installation, delivers the technology to the TSA for testing and evaluation; and

“(B) submits to the Administrator, in such form and manner as the Administrator prescribes, a signed notification of the delivery described in subparagraph (A).

“(e) Retesting and Evaluation.—

Advanced transportation security screening technology that fails testing and evaluation by the TSIF may be retested and evaluated at the discretion of the Administrator.

“(f) Rule of Construction.—

Nothing in this section may be construed to affect the authority or responsibility of an officer of the Department, or an officer of any other Federal department or agency, with respect to research, development, testing, and evaluation of technologies, including such authorities or responsibilities of the Undersecretary [probably should be “Under Secretary”] for Science and Technology of the Department and Assistant Secretary of the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office of the Department.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1912 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Public Area Security Working Group

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1931, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3569, provided that:

“(a) Definitions.—

In this section:

“(1) Public and private stakeholders.—

The term ‘public and private stakeholders’ has the meaning given the term in section 114(t)(1)(C) of title 49, United States Code.

“(2) Surface transportation asset.—

The term ‘surface transportation asset’ includes—

“(A) facilities, equipment, or systems used to provide transportation services by—

“(i) a public transportation agency (as the term is defined in section 1402 of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (6 U.S.C. 1131));

“(ii) a railroad carrier (as the term is defined in section 20102 of title 49, United States Code); [or]

“(iii) an owner or operator of—

     “(I) an entity offering scheduled, fixed-route transportation services by over-the road bus (as the term is defined in section 1501 of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (6 U.S.C. 1151)); or

     “(II) a bus terminal; or

“(B) other transportation facilities, equipment, or systems, as determined by the Secretary.

“(b) Public Area Security Working Group.—

“(1) Working group.—

The Administrator, in coordination with the National Protection and Programs Directorate, shall establish a working group to promote collaborative engagement between the TSA and public and private stakeholders to develop non-binding recommendations for enhancing security in public areas of transportation facilities (including facilities that are surface transportation assets), including recommendations regarding the following:

“(A) Information sharing and interoperable communication capabilities among the TSA and public and private stakeholders with respect to terrorist or other threats.

“(B) Coordinated incident response procedures.

“(C) The prevention of terrorist attacks and other incidents through strategic planning, security training, exercises and drills, law enforcement patrols, worker vetting, and suspicious activity reporting.

“(D) Infrastructure protection through effective construction design barriers and installation of advanced surveillance and other security technologies.

“(2) Annual report.—

“(A) In general.—

Not later than 1 year after the date the working group is established under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committee of Congress [probably should be “appropriate committees of Congress”] a report, covering the 12-month period preceding the date of the report, on—

“(i) the organization of the working group;

“(ii) the activities of the working group;

“(iii) the participation of the TSA and public and private stakeholders in the activities of the working group; [and]

“(iv) the findings of the working group, including any recommendations.

“(B) Publication.—

The Administrator may publish a public version of such report that describes the activities of the working group and such related matters as would be informative to the public, consistent with section 552(b) of title 5, United States Code.

“(3) Nonapplicability of faca.—

The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the working group established under subsection (a) [probably should be “paragraph (1)”] or any subcommittee thereof.

“(c) Technical Assistance.—

“(1) In general.—

The Secretary shall—

“(A) inform owners and operators of surface transportation assets about the availability of technical assistance, including vulnerability assessment tools and cybersecurity guidelines, to help protect and enhance the resilience of public areas of such assets; and

“(B) upon request, and subject to the availability of appropriations, provide such technical assistance to owners and operators of surface transportation assets.

“(2) Best practices.—

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], and periodically thereafter, the Secretary shall publish on the Department website and widely disseminate, as appropriate, current best practices for protecting and enhancing the resilience of public areas of transportation facilities (including facilities that are surface transportation assets), including associated frameworks or templates for implementation.

“(d) Review.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall—

“(A) review of [sic] regulations, directives, policies, and procedures issued by the Administrator regarding the transportation of a firearm and ammunition; and

“(B) submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report on the findings of the review under subparagraph (A), including, as appropriate, information on any plans to modify any regulation, directive, policy, or procedure based on the review.

“(2) Consultation.—

In preparing the report under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall consult with—

“(A) ASAC;

“(B) the Surface Transportation Security Advisory Committee under section 404 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 [6 U.S.C. 204]; and

“(C) appropriate public and private stakeholders.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1931 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Public Area Best Practices

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1932, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3571, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

The Administrator shall, in accordance with law and as received or developed, periodically submit information, on any best practices developed by the TSA or appropriate transportation stakeholders related to protecting the public spaces of transportation infrastructure from emerging threats, to the following:

“(1) Federal Security Directors at airports.

“(2) Appropriate security directors for other modes of transportation.

“(3) Other appropriate transportation security stakeholders.

“(b) Information Sharing.—

The Administrator shall, in accordance with law—

“(1) in coordination with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and industry partners, implement improvements to the Air Domain Intelligence and Analysis Center to encourage increased participation from stakeholders and enhance government and industry security information sharing on transportation security threats, including on cybersecurity threat awareness;

“(2) expand and improve the City and Airport Threat Assessment or similar program to public and private stakeholders to capture, quantify, communicate, and apply applicable intelligence to inform transportation infrastructure mitigation measures, such as—

“(A) quantifying levels of risk by airport that can be used to determine risk-based security mitigation measures at each location; and

“(B) determining random and surge employee inspection operations based on changing levels of risk;

“(3) continue to disseminate Transportation Intelligence Notes, tear-lines, and related intelligence products to appropriate transportation security stakeholders on a regular basis; and

“(4) continue to conduct both regular routine and threat-specific classified briefings between the TSA and appropriate transportation sector stakeholders on an individual or group basis to provide greater information sharing between public and private sectors.

“(c) Mass Notification.—

The Administrator shall encourage security stakeholders to utilize mass notification systems, including the Integrated Public Alert Warning System of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and social media platforms, to disseminate information to transportation community employees, travelers, and the general public, as appropriate.

“(d) Public Awareness Programs.—

The Secretary, in coordination with the Administrator, shall expand public programs of the Department of Homeland Security and the TSA that increase security threat awareness, education, and training to include transportation network public area employees, including airport and transportation vendors, local hotels, cab and limousine companies, ridesharing companies, cleaning companies, gas station attendants, cargo operators, and general aviation members.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1932 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Surface Transportation Security Assessment and Implementation of Risk-Based Strategy

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1964, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3604, provided that:

“(a) Security Assessment.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall complete an assessment of the vulnerabilities of and risks to surface transportation systems.

“(2) Considerations.—

In conducting the security assessment under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall, at a minimum—

“(A) consider appropriate intelligence;

“(B) consider security breaches and attacks at domestic and international surface transportation facilities;

“(C) consider the vulnerabilities and risks associated with specific modes of surface transportation;

“(D) evaluate the vetting and security training of—

“(i) employees in surface transportation; and

“(ii) other individuals with access to sensitive or secure areas of surface transportation networks; and

“(E) consider input from—

“(i) representatives of different modes of surface transportation;

“(ii) representatives of critical infrastructure entities;

“(iii) the Transportation Systems Sector Coordinating Council; and

“(iv) the heads of other relevant Federal departments or agencies.

“(b) Risk-based Surface Transportation Security Strategy.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 180 days after the date the security assessment under subsection (a) is complete, the Administrator shall use the results of the assessment—

“(A) to develop and implement a cross-cutting, risk-based surface transportation security strategy that includes—

“(i) all surface transportation modes;

“(ii) a mitigating strategy that aligns with each vulnerability and risk identified in subsection (a);

“(iii) a planning process to inform resource allocation;

“(iv) priorities, milestones, and performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of the risk-based surface transportation security strategy; and

“(v) processes for sharing relevant and timely intelligence threat information with appropriate stakeholders;

“(B) to develop a management oversight strategy that—

“(i) identifies the parties responsible for the implementation, management, and oversight of the risk-based surface transportation security strategy; and

“(ii) includes a plan for implementing the risk-based surface transportation security strategy; and

“(C) to modify the risk-based budget and resource allocations, in accordance with section 1965(c) [set out as a note below], for the Transportation Security Administration.

“(2) Coordinated approach.—

In developing and implementing the risk-based surface transportation security strategy under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall coordinate with the heads of other relevant Federal departments or agencies, and stakeholders, as appropriate—

“(A) to evaluate existing surface transportation security programs, policies, and initiatives, including the explosives detection canine teams, for consistency with the risk-based security strategy and, to the extent practicable, avoid any unnecessary duplication of effort;

“(B) to determine the extent to which stakeholder security programs, policies, and initiatives address the vulnerabilities and risks to surface transportation systems identified in subsection (a); and

“(C) subject to subparagraph (B), to mitigate each vulnerability and risk to surface transportation systems identified in subsection (a).

“(c) Report.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 180 days after the date the security assessment under subsection (a) is complete, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress and the Inspector General of the Department a report that—

“(A) describes the process used to complete the security assessment;

“(B) describes the process used to develop the risk-based security strategy;

“(C) describes the risk-based security strategy;

“(D) includes the management oversight strategy;

“(E) includes—

“(i) the findings of the security assessment;

“(ii) a description of the actions recommended or taken by the Administrator to mitigate the vulnerabilities and risks identified in subsection (a), including interagency coordination;

“(iii) any recommendations for improving the coordinated approach to mitigating vulnerabilities and risks to surface transportation systems; and

“(iv) any recommended changes to the National Infrastructure Protection Plan, the modal annexes to such plan, or relevant surface transportation security programs, policies, or initiatives; and

“(F) may contain a classified annex.

“(2) Protections.—

In preparing the report, the Administrator shall take appropriate actions to safeguard information described by section 552(b) of title 5, United States Code, or protected from disclosure by any other law of the United States.

“(d) Updates.—

Not less frequently than semiannually, the Administrator shall report to or brief the appropriate committees of Congress on the vulnerabilities of and risks to surface transportation systems and how those vulnerabilities and risks affect the risk-based security strategy.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1964 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Risk-Based Budgeting and Resource Allocation

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1965, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3606, provided that:

“(a) Report.—

In conjunction with the submission of the Department’s annual budget request to the Office of Management and Budget, the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that describes a risk-based budget and resource allocation plan for surface transportation sectors, within and across modes, that—

“(1) reflects the risk-based surface transportation security strategy under section 1964(b) [set out as a note above]; and

“(2) is organized by appropriations account, program, project, and initiative.

“(b) Budget Transparency.—

In submitting the annual budget of the United States Government under section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, the President shall clearly distinguish the resources requested for surface transportation security from the resources requested for aviation security.

“(c) Resource Reallocation.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 15 days after the date on which the Transportation Security Administration allocates any resources or personnel, including personnel sharing, detailing, or assignment, or the use of facilities, technology systems, or vetting resources, for a nontransportation security purpose or National Special Security Event (as defined in section 2001 of Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 601)), the Secretary shall provide the notification described in paragraph (2) to the appropriate committees of Congress.

“(2) Notification.—

A notification described in this paragraph shall include—

“(A) the reason for and a justification of the resource or personnel allocation;

“(B) the expected end date of the resource or personnel allocation; and

“(C) the projected cost to the Transportation Security Administration of the personnel or resource allocation.

“(d) 5-year Capital Investment Plan.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives a 5-year capital investment plan, consistent with the 5-year technology investment plan under section 1611 of title XVI of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 [6 U.S.C. 563], as amended by section 3 of the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act (Public Law 113–245; 128 Stat. 2871).”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1965 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Transparency

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1967, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3607, provided that:

“(a) Regulations.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], and every 180 days thereafter, the Administrator [of the Transportation Security Administration] shall publish on a public website information regarding the status of each regulation relating to surface transportation security that is directed by law to be issued and that has not been issued if not less than 2 years have passed since the date of enactment of the law.

“(2) Contents.—

The information published under paragraph (1) shall include—

“(A) an updated rulemaking schedule for the outstanding regulation;

“(B) current staff allocations;

“(C) data collection or research relating to the development of the rulemaking;

“(D) current efforts, if any, with security experts, advisory committees, and other stakeholders; and

“(E) other relevant details associated with the development of the rulemaking that impact the progress of the rulemaking.

“(b) Inspector General Review.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter until all of the requirements under titles XIII [6 U.S.C. 1111 et seq.], XIV [6 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.], and XV [6 U.S.C. 1151 et seq.] of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 (6 U.S.C. 1111 et seq.) and under this title [see Tables for classification] have been fully implemented, the Inspector General of the Department shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress [Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives] a report that—

“(1) identifies the requirements under such titles of that Act and under this title that have not been fully implemented;

“(2) describes what, if any, additional action is necessary; and

“(3) includes recommendations regarding whether any of the requirements under such titles of that Act or this title should be amended or repealed.”

TSA Counterterrorism Asset Deployment

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1968(a), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3608, provided that:

“(1) In general.—

If the Administrator [of the Transportation Security Administration] deploys any counterterrorism personnel or resource, such as explosive detection sweeps, random bag inspections, or patrols by Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response teams, to enhance security at a transportation system or transportation facility for a period of not less than 180 consecutive days, the Administrator shall provide sufficient notification to the system or facility operator, as applicable, not less than 14 days prior to terminating the deployment.

“(2) Exception.—

This subsection shall not apply if the Administrator—

“(A) determines there is an urgent security need for the personnel or resource described in paragraph (1); and

“(B) notifies the appropriate committees of Congress [Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives] of the determination under subparagraph (A).”

Best Practices To Secure Against Vehicle-Based Attacks

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1982, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3620, provided that:

“Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator [of the Transportation Security Administration] shall disseminate best practices to public and private stakeholders regarding how to enhance transportation security against the threat of a vehicle-based terrorist attack.”

Risk Scenarios

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1986, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3621, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

The Administrator shall annually develop, consistent with the transportation modal security plans required under section 114(s) of title 49, United States Code, risk-based priorities based on risk assessments conducted or received by the Secretary across all transportation modes that consider threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences.

“(b) Scenarios.—

The Administrator shall ensure that the risk-based priorities identified under subsection (a) are informed by an analysis of terrorist attack scenarios for each transportation mode, including cyber-attack scenarios and intelligence and open source information about current and evolving threats.

“(c) Report.—

Not later than 120 days after the date that annual risk-based priorities are developed under subsection (a), the Administrator shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that includes the following:

“(1) Copies of the risk assessments for each transportation mode.

“(2) A summary that ranks the risks within and across modes.

“(3) A description of the risk-based priorities for securing the transportation sector that identifies and prioritizes the greatest security needs of such transportation sector, both across and within modes, in the order that such priorities should be addressed.

“(4) Information on the underlying methodologies used to assess risks across and within each transportation mode and the basis for any assumptions regarding threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences made in assessing and prioritizing risks within each such mode and across modes.

“(d) Classification.—

The information provided under subsection (c) may be submitted in a classified format or unclassified format, as the Administrator considers appropriate.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1986 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Integrated and Unified Operations Centers

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1987, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3622, provided that:

“(a) Framework.—

Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator, in consultation with the heads of other appropriate offices or components of the Department, shall make available to public and private stakeholders a framework for establishing an integrated and unified operations center responsible for overseeing daily operations of a transportation facility that promotes coordination for responses to terrorism, serious incidents, and other purposes, as determined appropriate by the Administrator.

“(b) Report.—

Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall brief the appropriate committees of Congress regarding the establishment and activities of integrated and unified operations centers at transportation facilities at which the TSA has a presence.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1987 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Information Sharing and Cybersecurity

Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1989, Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3624, provided that:

“(a) Federal Security Directors.—

[Amended section 44933 of this title.]

“(b) Plan to Improve Information Sharing.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall develop a plan to improve intelligence information sharing with State and local transportation entities that includes best practices to ensure that the information shared is actionable, useful, and not redundant.

“(2) Contents.—

The plan required under paragraph (1) shall include the following:

“(A) The incorporation of best practices for information sharing.

“(B) The identification of areas of overlap and redundancy.

“(C) An evaluation and incorporation of stakeholder input in the development of such plan.

“(D) The integration of any recommendations of the Comptroller General of the United States on information sharing.

“(3) Solicitation.—

The Administrator shall solicit on an annual basis input from appropriate stakeholders, including State and local transportation entities, on the quality and quantity of intelligence received by such stakeholders relating to information sharing.

“(c) Best Practices Sharing.—

“(1) In general.—

Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], the Administrator shall establish a mechanism to share with State and local transportation entities best practices from across the law enforcement spectrum, including Federal, State, local, and tribal entities, that relate to employee training, employee professional development, technology development and deployment, hardening tactics, and passenger and employee awareness programs.

“(2) Consultation.—

The Administrator shall solicit and incorporate stakeholder input—

“(A) in developing the mechanism for sharing best practices as required under paragraph (1); and

“(B) not less frequently than annually on the quality and quantity of information such stakeholders receive through the mechanism established under such paragraph.

“(d) Cybersecurity.—

“(1) In general.—

The Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary, shall—

“(A) not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 2018], implement the Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity (referred to in this section as the ‘Framework’ developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and any update to such Framework under section 2 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 272), to manage the agency’s cybersecurity risks; and

“(B) evaluate, on a periodic basis, but not less often than biennially, the use of the Framework under subparagraph (A).

“(2) Cybersecurity enhancements to aviation security activities.—

The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall, upon request, conduct cybersecurity vulnerability assessments for airports and air carriers.

“(3) TSA trusted traveler and credentialing program cyber evaluation.—

“(A) Evaluation required.—

Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall—

“(i) evaluate the cybersecurity of TSA trusted traveler and credentialing programs that contain personal information of specific individuals or information that identifies specific individuals, including the Transportation Worker Identification Credential and PreCheck programs;

“(ii) identify any cybersecurity risks under the programs described in clause (i); and

“(iii) develop remediation plans to address the cybersecurity risks identified under clause (ii).

“(B) Submission to congress.—

Not later than 30 days after the date the evaluation under subparagraph (A) is complete, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress information relating to such evaluation, including any cybersecurity vulnerabilities identified and remediation plans to address such vulnerabilities. Such submission shall be provided in a classified form.

“(4) Definitions.—

In this subsection, the terms ‘cybersecurity risk’ and ‘incident’ have the meanings given the terms in section 227 [now section 2209] of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 148) [now 6 U.S.C. 659].”

[For definitions of terms used in section 1989 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out above, see section 1902 of Pub. L. 115–254, set out as a Definitions of Terms in Title I of Div. K of Pub. L. 115–254 note under section 101 of this title.]

Safeguarding and Disposal of Personal Information of Registered Traveler Program Participants

Pub. L. 114–4, title V, § 536, Mar. 4, 2015, 129 Stat. 67, provided that:

“(a) Any company that collects or retains personal information directly from any individual who participates in the Registered Traveler or successor program of the Transportation Security Administration shall hereafter safeguard and dispose of such information in accordance with the requirements in—

“(1) the National Institute for Standards and Technology Special Publication 800–30, entitled ‘Risk Management Guide for Information Technology Systems’;

“(2) the National Institute for Standards and Technology Special Publication 800–53, Revision 3, entitled ‘Recommended Security Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations’; and

“(3) any supplemental standards established by the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (referred to in this section as the ‘Administrator’).

“(b) The airport authority or air carrier operator that sponsors the company under the Registered Traveler program shall hereafter be known as the ‘Sponsoring Entity’.

“(c) The Administrator shall hereafter require any company covered by subsection (a) to provide, not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Mar. 4, 2015], to the Sponsoring Entity written certification that the procedures used by the company to safeguard and dispose of information are in compliance with the requirements under subsection (a). Such certification shall include a description of the procedures used by the company to comply with such requirements.”

Registered Traveler Programs and Biometrically-Secure Cards

Pub. L. 110–161, div. E, title V, § 571, Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2093, provided that:

“Effective no later than ninety days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 26, 2007], the Transportation Security Administration shall permit approved members of Registered Traveler programs to satisfy fully the required identity verification procedures at security screening checkpoints by presenting a biometrically-secure Registered Traveler card in lieu of the government-issued photo identification document required of non-participants: Provided, That if their identity is not confirmed biometrically, the standard identity and screening procedures will apply: Provided further, That if the Assistant Secretary (Transportation Security Administration) determines this is a threat to civil aviation, then the Assistant Secretary (Transportation Security Administration) shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and House of Representatives five days in advance of such determination and require Registered Travelers to present government-issued photo identification documents in conjunction with a biometrically-secure Registered Traveler card.”

Congressional Oversight of Security Assurance for Public and Private Stakeholders

Pub. L. 110–53, title XII, § 1203(b), Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 385, as amended by Pub. L. 115–254, div. K, title I, § 1904(b)(2), Oct. 5, 2018, 132 Stat. 3545, provided that:

“(1) In general.—

Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary [of Homeland Security] shall provide a semiannual report to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives that includes—

“(A) the number of public and private stakeholders who were provided with each report;

“(B) a description of the measures the Secretary has taken to ensure proper treatment and security for any classified information to be shared with the public and private stakeholders under the Plan; and

“(C) an explanation of the reason for the denial of transportation security information to any stakeholder who had previously received such information.

“(2) No report required if no changes in stakeholders.—

The Secretary is not required to provide a semiannual report under paragraph (1) if no stakeholders have been added to or removed from the group of persons with whom transportation security information is shared under the plan [probably should be “Plan”] since the end of the period covered by the last preceding semiannual report.”

Specialized Training

Pub. L. 110–53, title XVI, § 1611, Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 485, provided that:

“The Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall provide advanced training to transportation security officers for the development of specialized security skills, including behavior observation and analysis, explosives detection, and document examination, in order to enhance the effectiveness of layered transportation security measures.”

Inapplicability of Personnel Limitations After Fiscal Year 2007

Pub. L. 110–53, title XVI, § 1612, Aug. 3, 2007, 121 Stat. 485, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

Notwithstanding any provision of law, any statutory limitation on the number of employees in the Transportation Security Administration, before or after its transfer to the Department of Homeland Security from the Department of Transportation, does not apply after fiscal year 2007.

“(b) Aviation Security.—

Notwithstanding any provision of law imposing a limitation on the recruiting or hiring of personnel into the Transportation Security Administration to a maximum number of permanent positions, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall recruit and hire such personnel into the Administration as may be necessary—

“(1) to provide appropriate levels of aviation security; and

“(2) to accomplish that goal in such a manner that the average aviation security-related delay experienced by airline passengers is reduced to a level of less than 10 minutes.”

Lease of Property to Transportation Security Administration Employees

Pub. L. 109–90, title V, § 514, Oct. 18, 2005, 119 Stat. 2084, provided that:

“Notwithstanding section 3302 of title 31, United States Code, for fiscal year 2006 and thereafter, the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration may impose a reasonable charge for the lease of real and personal property to Transportation Security Administration employees and for use by Transportation Security Administration employees and may credit amounts received to the appropriation or fund initially charged for operating and maintaining the property, which amounts shall be available, without fiscal year limitation, for expenditure for property management, operation, protection, construction, repair, alteration, and related activities.”

Similar provisions were contained in the following prior appropriation act:

Pub. L. 108–334, title V, § 516, Oct. 18, 2004, 118 Stat. 1318.

Acquisition Management System of the Transportation Security Administration

Pub. L. 109–90, title V, § 515, Oct. 18, 2005, 119 Stat. 2084, provided that:

“For fiscal year 2006 and thereafter, the acquisition management system of the Transportation Security Administration shall apply to the acquisition of services, as well as equipment, supplies, and materials.”

Similar provisions were contained in the following prior appropriation act:

Pub. L. 108–334, title V, § 517, Oct. 18, 2004, 118 Stat. 1318.

Registered Traveler Program Fee

Pub. L. 109–90, title V, § 540, Oct. 18, 2005, 119 Stat. 2088, provided that:

“For fiscal year 2006 and thereafter, notwithstanding section 553 of title 5, United States Code, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall impose a fee for any registered traveler program undertaken by the Department of Homeland Security by notice in the Federal Register, and may modify the fee from time to time by notice in the Federal Register: Provided, That such fees shall not exceed the aggregate costs associated with the program and shall be credited to the Transportation Security Administration registered traveler fee account, to be available until expended.”

Enhanced Security Measures

Pub. L. 107–71, title I, § 109, Nov. 19, 2001, 115 Stat. 613, as amended by Pub. L. 107–296, title XIV, § 1403(b), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2306, provided that:

“(a) In General.—

The Under Secretary of Transportation for Security [now the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration] may take the following actions:

“(1) Require effective 911 emergency call capability for telephones serving passenger aircraft and passenger trains.

“(2) Establish a uniform system of identification for all State and local law enforcement personnel for use in obtaining permission to carry weapons in aircraft cabins and in obtaining access to a secured area of an airport, if otherwise authorized to carry such weapons.

“(3) Establish requirements to implement trusted passenger programs and use available technologies to expedite the security screening of passengers who participate in such programs, thereby allowing security screening personnel to focus on those passengers who should be subject to more extensive screening.

“(4) In consultation with the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, develop alternative security procedures under which a medical product to be transported on a flight of an air carrier would not be subject to an inspection that would irreversibly damage the product.

“(5) Provide for the use of technologies, including wireless and wire line data technologies, to enable the private and secure communication of threats to aid in the screening of passengers and other individuals on airport property who are identified on any State or Federal security-related data base for the purpose of having an integrated response coordination of various authorized airport security forces.

“(6) In consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, consider whether to require all pilot licenses to incorporate a photograph of the license holder and appropriate biometric imprints.

“(7) Provide for the use of voice stress analysis, biometric, or other technologies to prevent a person who might pose a danger to air safety or security from boarding the aircraft of an air carrier or foreign air carrier in air transportation or intrastate air transportation.

“(8) Provide for the use of technology that will permit enhanced instant communications and information between airborne passenger aircraft and appropriate individuals or facilities on the ground.

“(9) Require that air carriers provide flight attendants with a discreet, hands-free, wireless method of communicating with the pilots.

“(b) Report.—

Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 19, 2001], and annually thereafter until the Under Secretary [now the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration] has implemented or decided not to take each of the actions specified in subsection (a), the Under Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the progress of the Under Secretary in evaluating and taking such actions, including any legislative recommendations that the Under Secretary may have for enhancing transportation security.”

[For definitions of terms used in section 109 of Pub. L. 107–71, set out above, see section 133 of Pub. L. 107–71, set out as a note under section 40102 of this title.]