John Sarbanes: “nearly one month has passed since the ferocious attacks of September 11th. Words remain inadequate to describe or define…”

“nearly one month has passed since the ferocious attacks of September 11th. Words remain inadequate to describe or define the event. Analysts are beginning to assess the immediate costs in economic terms. Someday, perhaps, historians will succeed in cataloguing, analyzing and calculating the losses. But some losses--families torn apart, communities devastated--will remain forever beyond calculation. However, the tragic events of September 11th leave no question that our airport security system is in need of reformation. The ability of hijackers to ease through our Nation's airport screeners has created fear among the American public about flying and has led to a significant downturn in the travel and tourism industry. Around the country, air travelers now patiently wait in long lines after emergency security procedures have been instituted to prevent further tragedies. Thousands of employees, not only from the airline industry, but also well beyond it, have lost their jobs. During these difficult times, it is imperative that Congress act to protect Americans from future terrorism and to provide economic assistance to those left unemployed because of the horrendous acts of September 11th. I strongly support S. 1447 because it takes vital steps to strengthen our Nation's airport security system, to ensure safety for crews and passengers, and to bolster our economy.”