Security Industry Association Applauds Passage of TSA Acquisition Reform Act

Congressional testimony highlighted the benefits of best practices to business

Silver Spring, MD — The Security Industry Association (SIA) today congratulated the House of Representatives for passing the Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act (H.R. 2719), which requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to implement best practices and improve its transparency with regard to its technology procurements.

In a hearing of the House Homeland Security transportation security subcommittee on July 17, 2013, Shené Commodore, business manager for Intertek,testified in favor of the bill, introduced by Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., on behalf of SIA.

Commodore praised the unanimous passage of the bill by the House on Dec. 3.
“This is critical to continually improve the nation’s transportation systems while assisting businesses in gaining access to contracts,” Commodore said. “Guiding principles in this legislation will reduce some barriers to entry for new or small business which will allow TSA to benefit from more innovation. I’m excited to see how better acquisition planning and cost analysis will further TSA’s mission.”

SIA CEO Don Erickson said, “The Security Industry Association appreciates the strong efforts by Rep. Hudson and Chairman Michael McCaul to ensure swift passage of H.R. 2719 and to direct TSA to set clear technology acquisition priorities and goals, and to leverage the expertise of the security industry’s innovative leaders, to help protect millions of Americans each day who rely upon our nation’s transportation system. SIA is committed to supporting the passage of this legislation by the Senate in the near future.”

The Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act would task TSA with developing a multi-year strategic plan to guide its investments in technology. SIA, the leading association of electronic physical security companies, advocates the best practices and transparency described in the bill, as part of its efforts to build productive relationships between federal agencies and private business.

The Senate has yet to consider the bill.

About the Security Industry Association (SIA)

The Security Industry Association (https://www.securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for electronic and physical security solution providers. SIA protects and advances its members’ interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels; creating open industry standards that enable integration; advancing industry professionalism through education and training; opening global market opportunities; and collaboration with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Expos and Conferences, and owner of the Securing New Ground Conference, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities.