Strong Delivers House Victory for Aviation Security
WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8770, the SAFEGUARDS Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation led by Representative Dale Strong to ensure passenger security fees are reinvested in aviation and airport security.
“The SAFEGUARDS Act is about restoring accountability and keeping a promise to the American traveling public. Every day, millions of passengers pass through our nation’s airports and pay a security fee with the expectation that those dollars will be used to strengthen aviation security,” said Representative Strong. “As threats continue to evolve, we must continue investing in the technologies and systems our airports need to maintain confidence in the safety of air travel.”
For years, revenue generated by the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 9/11 Passenger Security Fee has been diverted away from its original purpose. The $5.60 fee, paid by every passenger on a one-way ticket, was first implemented to fund aviation security improvements and upgrades nationwide. However, since 2014, approximately $15 billion in fee revenue has been redirected to unrelated, non-security purposes.
The SAFEGUARDS Act restores the fee’s intent by allocating $500 million annually for checked bag explosive detection systems and $250 million for checkpoint technology upgrades, ensuring this revenue goes toward protecting American skies.
“House passage of this legislation helps ensure those resources are directed toward their intended purpose, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get it across the finish line,” Strong continued.
The SAFEGUARDS Act is supported by a broad coalition of aviation and travel leaders, including the Huntsville International Airport, Airlines for America, American Airlines, U.S. Travel Association, Southwest Airlines, Airport Council International–North America, and the American Association of Airport Executives.
The legislation passed the House unanimously. It now awaits consideration in the Senate.
Additional information and quotes of support regarding Representative Strong’s introduction of the SAFEGUARDS Act may be found here.
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