On the recordJune 15, 2015
Our Nation's airports are economic and cultural engines that drive our local, State, and national economy. They are the front door for many of our communities. Unfortunately, they are also a known target for those seeking to incite fear. Two weeks ago, a man entered the world's busiest airport in Atlanta, Georgia, carrying a loaded AR-15 automatic weapon with an extended capacity 100-round magazine. He did so only to make a point, and that was to show that he was legally able to carry his firearm in the airport. Mr. Speaker, actions like this, which follow shootings at airports in Los Angeles and Houston, undermine public security in the same way as yelling ``fire'' in a crowded theater. Today, I will introduce legislation to prohibit the carrying of loaded weapons in our Nation's airports. The Airport Security Act is a commonsense bill, and I urge my colleagues to join me in keeping the traveling public safe. ____________________
