H.R. 2132, Traveler Redress Improvement Act of 2017

Floor Situation

On Tuesday, June 20, 2017, the House will consider H.R. 2132, Traveler Redress Improvement Act, under suspension of the rules.  H.R. 2132 was introduced on April 25, 2017, by Rep. John Katko (R-NY) and was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, which ordered the bill reported on May 3, 2017 by voice vote.

 Summary

H.R. 2132 would require the implementation of a redress process for individuals who believe they have been wrongly identified as high risk to aviation security.

Specifically, the bill ensures the Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) is available to individuals who are citizens of the United States or legal residents, have filed an inquiry with DHS TRIP more than 3 times in a 60 day period, or believe they have been wrongly designated as a “Selectee” under a Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) terrorist watch list program,. Additionally, the bill requires the TSA to review and update the Privacy Impact Assessment for the Secure Flight programs, as well as a review of the TSA’s intelligence-based screening rules.

Background

Currently, the DHS TRIP provides assistance to individuals who experience difficulties during travel screenings including, watch list issues, screening at ports of entry, or situations where travelers may have been incorrectly delayed or denied boarding onto an aircraft.[1]

There are two subsets of watch lists used by TSA, the “No Fly” list and the “Selectee” list. The “Selectee” list includes individuals who must undergo additional security screenings before being permitted to board an aircraft.[2]

According to DHS, many individuals who apply for redress are not on a watch list, but may be misidentified as someone who is due to a name similarity.[3]

The TSA’s Secure Flight program screens aviation passengers and certain non-travelers before they access certain airport areas or board aircraft.[4]

Cost

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that implementing H.R. 2132 would increase the agency’s administrative costs by less than $100,000 annually and such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

Staff Contact

For questions or further information please contact Dominique Yantko with the House Republican Policy Committee by email or at 3-1555.