H.R. 6461, TSA National Deployment Force Act

Floor Situation

On Tuesday, September 4, 2018, the House will consider H.R. 6461, the TSA National Deployment Force Act, under suspension of the rules. This bill was introduced on July 19, 2018 by Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, which ordered the bill reported by unanimous consent on July 24, 2018.

Summary              

H.R. 6461 codifies and authorizes the National Deployment Force (NDF). The bill establishes the National Deployment Office and tasks it with managing the NDF, recruiting Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) to participate, and training the TSOs who join the NDF. Finally, the legislation requires TSA to provide Congress with an annual report on the NDF, including its activities, collaboration with other Department of Homeland Security components, staffing, and recruitment and training activities.

Background

TSA’s National Deployment Force (NDF) is a rapid response force of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) and other TSA employees, based at airports around the country, who can be deployed around the country in support of homeland security operations. TSOs on the NDF typically serve one-year terms. Examples of situations where the NDF has been deployed include National Special Security Events and the aftermath of natural disasters or terrorist attacks. The NDF has also been used to support airports across that country that have experienced hiring shortfalls or require additional personnel due to seasonal demands.

Cost

A Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimate is not currently available.

Staff Contact

For questions or further information please contact Jake Vreeburg with the House Republican Policy Committee by email or at 2-1374.