Improving Travel for American Families Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8897, the Improving Travel for American Families Act, which I am leading alongside my colleague, Representative Foushee.

Americans everywhere understand that there are better, easier, and more efficient ways to manage safety screenings at our airports. That was made clear when this legislation was reported unanimously by the Committee on Homeland Security by a vote of 30-0.

We are bringing both sides together to give families the more convenient air travel experience that they deserve. As the father of two young children, I know firsthand that family travel can be challenging.

Parents often have to navigate crowded airports while juggling strollers, diaper bags, car seats, and more, all while taking their families through the large crowds and navigating long lines.

Every parent is aware that the most stressful part of this process can be the TSA screening point. Families with an array of bags and bulky items pack into the same lanes as business travelers with a small carry-on. The resulting problems can create stress for parents and frustration for everyone else.

That is why H.R. 8897 allows the TSA to establish a pilot program that builds on its existing Families on the Fly initiative, which identifies ways to make the security screening process easier for adults traveling with children 12 years of age and under.

Through this initiative, the TSA is establishing dedicated lines reserved for families, giving them more space, time, and flexibility at security checkpoints.

Because of this program, parents are able to move through screening more smoothly, children have a less stressful experience, and security lines operate more efficiently for everyone in the airport.

Importantly, this legislation does not change TSA's screening requirements or security standards. It simply allows the agency to test practical, family friendly improvements while maintaining the same level of security that travelers expect.

This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help modernize travel experience for American families while improving efficiency at our Nation's airports.

Mr. Speaker, I again thank Representative Foushee for her partnership in this legislation, and I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 8897.

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