Mr. Speaker, today the American public has achieved an important victory. At long last, more than two months after September 11, Congress has bowed to our true leaders, the American people, and agreed to take airline security out of the hands of the private contractors who failed so miserably to protect us.
H.R. 3150 also will ensure that all baggage is screened for weapons and explosives, cockpit doors are reinforced, airport workers are properly screened and trained, and more air marshals are stationed on our flights. Unfortunately, the bill also requires all security screeners to be U.S. citizens. Legal permanent residents serve in the armed forces, fly airplanes, work as flight attendants, and repair airplanes. Qualified legal residents should be allowed to serve as screeners too.
Mr. Chairman, our sadness is renewed by the new tragedy in New York. But now we can travel to our Thanksgiving destinations with a greater sense of security, give thanks for the loved ones gathered safely around us.