PASSED: Rep. Magaziner’s Amendment to Strengthen Airport Cybersecurity Standards

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Seth Magaziner’s (RI-02) amendment to strengthen airport security standards and keep American travelers safe. This amendment passed in the House version of H.R. 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, which reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“Protecting airports from criminals, rogue states and terrorists is vital to ensure that Americans can travel with peace of mind,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “As the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee for Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence, I’m focused on keeping Americans safe. My provision, passed by the House, will help airports meet 21st century cybersecurity standards and recommendations – helping to prevent cyber attacks like ransomware and sabotage while protecting American travelers.”

Rep. Magaziner’s legislation addresses vulnerabilities that were revealed after cyber attacks on some of our nation’s largest airports last year. Over a dozen airport websites were targeted in a series of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks by a pro-Russian group.

The amendment will ensure cyber infrastructure upgrades at airports are eligible for $4 billion of funding for the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program. This will particularly help airports like Rhode Island’s T. F. Green International Airport, along with other small airports, that face funding challenges.

This is the fourth piece of legislation Magaziner has passed through the House of Representatives, as last week the House approved three of his amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act.

A copy of the amendment can be found HERE.