Federal Government Commits More Than $1 B for TSA Upgrades and Training

Kristi Noem, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, visited Las Vegas on Friday to announce a federal investment of more than $1 billion for airport security enhancements. The announcement took place at Harry Reid International Airport and will include upgraded screening technology, expanded training programs, and increased deployment of K-9 units according to officials.

During the same visit, Noem distributed bonus notices to select employees of the Transportation Security Administration who served during the 43-day federal shutdown. Many of those workers operated without pay during that period.

The investment is described by the department as the largest upgrade to airport checkpoint systems in more than a decade. Officials said the funds will be used to deploy advanced imaging scanners, new baggage screening machines, and expanded training and certification for security personnel.

Original source: KSNV News 3 Las Vegas.