(The Associated Press distributed the following article on May 13.)
WASHINGTON — Some members of Congress have heard public transit agencies’ cries for more money to pay for security.
D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton and some other House Democrats introduced a bill Thursday to improve security for passenger rail systems, including Metro. The Safe TRAINS Act would distribute nearly $3 billion over three years to public transportation systems that apply for the funding. Norton says bus and ferry systems could also be eligible.
The money would pay for cameras, communications equipment, explosive detection, training, ventilation and other upgrades. The legislation would also require transit authorities to come up with emergency response plans.
The bill’s sponsors point out Congress has appropriated less than $300 million for rail security compared to $14.5 billion for airline security since September 11, 2001.