Airport Safety Bill is a measured, proper response

While military forces surround the Taliban in Afghanistan, domestic measures are being taken to ensure that terrorists never again have a chance to attack America in the same way they did on Sept. 11.

The suicide terrorists took drastic measures to do the United States serious harm, and we have responded with forceful, yet measured actions.

The result of our democratic process was a security measure which pleases neither side of the aisle completely, but should provide adequate reassurance to air travelers that terrorists will never again be allowed to take control of an airliner.

While conservatives may be disappointed that security will be federalized, at least for three years, they have the reassurance the security guards, baggage and personnel screeners will not have the right to strike and can be terminated if they are unable to perform their duties as expected.

They should also agree that something had to be done to correct the old system, where thousands of lives depended on security provided by the lowest bidder.

The compromise legislation to be signed by President Bush corrects previous shortcomings by requiring airport security screeners to be U.S. citizens and undergo a criminal background check.

Pilots should be reassured that cockpit doors must be fortified and locked while the aircraft is in flight, and that the law authorizes the federal government to allow a pilot to carry an approved firearm after receiving formal training and airline approval.

"It is critical that the American public have confidence in American airport security," said U.S. Sen. Chuck Hagel. "Safe and secure air travel is an important component of economy. This is a good compromise. It puts responsible and accountable measures in place to deal with air travel security."

"This is an ambitious strategy to ensure the safety of air travel" said U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson. "This is an effort to provide standards, guidance and assistance to airports and airlines in order to achieve a high level of security for air travelers.

The senator noted several provisions of note to small airports like that of his hometown of McCook:

- The Federal Aviation Administration is required to provide technical support for enhancing security operations at small- and medium-sized airports.

- Airports must consult with local law enforcement and inform the Department of Transportation that proper safeguards are in place to ensure that parked vehicles are not a security risk.

- And, perhaps most importantly, allows Airport Improvement Program funds in fiscal year 2002 to be used to pay for security costs.

Following the terrorist attacks, President Bush urged Americans to fight back by going about their business. The Airport Safety Bill will help ensure their safety while they do.