(1) IN GENERAL- The Secretary, in consultation with the working group of industry stakeholders to be established under subsection (c), shall conduct a study on how airports can transition to uniform, standards-based, and interoperable biometric identifier systems for airport workers with unescorted access to secure or sterile areas of an airport.
(2) PURPOSE- The purpose of the study shall be to enhance transportation security against a potential act of terrorism by an airport worker who is allowed unescorted access to secure or sterile areas of an airport.
(3) RISK-BASED ANALYSIS- In conducting the study, the Secretary shall conduct a risk-based analysis of selected Category X and I airports and other airports, as the Secretary determines appropriate, to identify where the implementation of biometric identifier systems could benefit airports.
(4) CONSIDERATIONS- In conducting the study, the Secretary shall consider the following:
(A) PARALLEL SYSTEMS- Existing parallel biometric security systems applicable to workers with unescorted access to critical infrastructure, including--
(i) transportation security cards issued under section 70105 of title 46, United States Code;
(ii) armed law enforcement travel credentials issued under section 44903(h)(6) of title 49, United States Code; and
(iii) other credential programs used by the Federal Government, as the Secretary considers appropriate.
(B) EFFORTS BY TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION- Any biometric programs or proposals developed by the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration).
(C) INFRASTRUCTURE AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS- The architecture, modules, interfaces, and transmission of data needed to address risks associated with securing airports by providing interoperable biometric security measures and credentials for airport workers with unescorted access to secure and sterile areas of an airport.
(D) EXISTING AIRPORT SYSTEMS- Biometric infrastructure and systems in use in secure and sterile areas of airports.
(E) INCENTIVES- Possible incentives for airports that voluntarily seek to implement uniform, standards-based, and interoperable biometric identifier systems.
(F) ASSOCIATED COSTS- The costs of implementing uniform, standards-based, and interoperable biometric identifier systems at airports, including--
(i) the costs to airport operators, airport workers, air carriers, and other aviation industry stakeholders; and
(ii) the costs associated with ongoing operations and maintenance and modifications and enhancements needed to support changes in physical and electronic infrastructure.
(G) GAO RECOMMENDATIONS- Any recommendations or findings developed by the Government Accountability Office relating to implementing biometric security for airport workers with unescorted access to secure and sterile areas of airports.
(H) INFORMATION FROM OTHER SOURCES- Recommendations, guidance, and information from other sources, including government entities, organizations representing airport workers, and private individuals and organizations.
(5) REPORT- Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the results of the study conducted under this subsection.
U.S. Congress - Text of H.R.5982 as Referred in Senate Biometric Enhancement for Airport-Risk Reduction Act of 2008
