ABA asks Congress for security funds

American Bus Association (ABA) President Peter Pantuso testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways, Transit and Pipelines, requesting long-term authorization and additional funding for a longer-term security plan.

Since 2001, Congress has passed two bills that help bus operators improve security by providing funds for training, equipment and maintaining the security of bus passengers, facilities and personnel.

Since FY 2002, the Appropriations Committees have approved a total of $55 million for bus security grants.

However, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has not yet passed a comprehensive bus security bill.