Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security introduced H.R. 5982, The Biometric Enhancement and Airport-Risk Reduction (BEAR) Act of 2008. The legislation enhances previous aviation security efforts by ensuring proper introduction of biometric identification credentials to airport workers to further secure the nation's airports

Chairman Thompson issued the following statement with the introduction of this legislation:
"This bill is an innovative approach towards legislating smart security, it ensures there is a comprehensive plan in place before airports begin using biometric identification for its workers," said Thompson. "This is not about re-inventing the wheel or putting a stop to any good work at TSA - it is about helping us build upon smart, efficient, and effective airport security measures needed to secure Americans and protect a vital industry to our economy and resiliency."
The bill requires:

* The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to study existing and proposed industry programs that enhance our biometric security systems at airports.

* TSA to study how airports can transition to uniform, standards-based and interoperable biometric identifier systems for airport workers with unescorted access.

* TSA to submit to Congress a breakdown on best practices for issuing biometric credentials for airport workers.

* The Secretary of Homeland Security to spearhead a working group with industry stakeholders to strengthen private and public partnerships as they support the Secretary and Assistant Secretary in carrying out this Act.