For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
Washington, D.C. - Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today announced approximately $23 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for an inline baggage screening system at Orlando International Airport (MCO)—enhancing the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) ongoing efforts to bolster airport security while boosting the local economy.
"This state-of-the-art technology will strengthen security for travelers by enhancing our capability to detect and disrupt threats of terrorism," said Secretary Napolitano. "Infusing vital Recovery Act funds into critical airport security technology projects at Orlando International Airport will create local jobs, streamline the passenger check-in process and bolster security at airports across the nation."
"Employing enhanced baggage screening technology at Orlando is a key part of TSA's efforts to detect explosives, stay ahead of threats to aviation security, and ensure the safety of the traveling public," said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole.
The Recovery Act funds announced today include $23 million for the construction of an inline baggage screening system at Orlando International Airport. Inline screening systems use state-of-the art technology to screen checked baggage for explosives more quickly, while streamlining the ticketing process. They also provide on-screen resolution capabilities for security officers screening baggage—reducing the number of re-scans and physical bag searches.
In July, Secretary Napolitano announced $7.5 million in ARRA funds for MCO to expand their closed circuit television (CCTV) system, including funding several hundred cameras to provide enhanced surveillance capabilities throughout the airport.
ARRA, signed into law by President Obama on Feb. 17, 2009, committed more than $3 billion for homeland security projects through DHS and the General Services Administration. Of the $1 billion allocated to TSA for aviation security projects, $734 million is dedicated to screening checked baggage and $266 million is allocated for airport checkpoint screening and CCTV technologies.
To learn more about the DHS Recovery Act projects, visit www.dhs.gov/recovery.
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