Senator Michael Gianaris (D-Queens) has introduced his MTA Security Act (S1968), an important proposal that would protect subway and bus riders. The legislation would grant the State Director of Homeland Security oversight of the security measures utilized by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at its facilities. The State Department of Homeland Security would examine the security measures being used by the MTA and issue findings and recommendations regarding necessary enhancements. The Director would then be empowered to require the implementation of the recommendations.
“New York's mass transit riders deserve to use the subways and buses free from fear of a terrorist incident,” said Senator Gianaris. “We need anti-terrorism experts to oversee the security measures in place and ensure all necessary steps are being taken to make our mass transit system as safe as possible.”
Senator Gianaris first introduced the MTA Security Act in 2005 while a member of the Assembly.
Due to the increased threats New York City has experienced in the last decade, it is even more important that appropriate security measures are enacted throughout our transit infrastructure so that all modes of transportation are secure and we can avoid additional burdens on law enforcement.
This legislation has been referred to the Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committees in the Senate. Once passed by both houses of the Legislature and signed by the Governor, the bill would take effect immediately.
