“Case-by-Case: Returning Parole to its Proper Purpose”

1[House Hearing, 119 Congress]2[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]34                AMERICA ON THE GLOBAL STAGE: EXAMINING5                 EFFORTS TO SECURE AND IMPROVE THE U.S.6                 TRAVEL SYSTEM AND PREPARE FOR SIGNIFI-7                 CANT INTERNATIONAL EVENTS89=======================================================================1011                                HEARING1213                               BEFORE THE1415                            SUBCOMMITTEE ON16                  TRANSPORTATION AND MARITIME SECURITY1718                                 OF THE1920                     COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY21                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES2223                    ONE HUNDRED NINETEENTH CONGRESS2425                             FIRST SESSION2627                               __________2829                             APRIL 8, 20253031                               __________3233                           Serial No. 119-123435                               __________3637       Printed for the use of the Committee on Homeland Security3839[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]4041        Available via the World Wide Web: http://www.govinfo.gov4243                               __________4445                    U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE4661-304 PDF                  WASHINGTON : 20254748-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------4950                     COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY5152                 Mark E. Green, MD, Tennessee, Chairman53Michael T. McCaul, Texas, Vice       Bennie G. Thompson, Mississippi,54    Chair                                Ranking Member55Clay Higgins, Louisiana              Eric Swalwell, California56Michael Guest, Mississippi           J. Luis Correa, California57Carlos A. Gimenez, Florida           Shri Thanedar, Michigan58August Pfluger, Texas                Seth Magaziner, Rhode Island59Andrew R. Garbarino, New York        Daniel S. Goldman, New York60Marjorie Taylor Greene, Georgia      Delia C. Ramirez, Illinois61Tony Gonzales, Texas                 Timothy M. Kennedy, New York62Morgan Luttrell, Texas               LaMonica McIver, New Jersey63Dale W. Strong, Alabama              Julie Johnson, Texas, Vice Ranking64Josh Brecheen, Oklahoma                  Member65Elijah Crane, Arizona                Pablo Jose Hernandez, Puerto Rico66Andrew Ogles, Tennessee              Nellie Pou, New Jersey67Sheri Biggs, South Carolina          Troy A. Carter, Louisiana68Gabe Evans, Colorado                 Robert Garcia, California69Ryan Mackenzie, Pennsylvania         Vacancy70Brad Knott, North Carolina71                    Eric Heighberger, Staff Director72                  Hope Goins, Minority Staff Director73                       Sean Corcoran, Chief Clerk74                                 ------7576          SUBCOMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND MARITIME SECURITY7778                  Carlos A. Gimenez, Florida, Chairman79Andrew R. Garbarino, New York        LaMonica McIver, New Jersey,80Elijah Crane, Arizona                    Ranking Member81Sheri Biggs, South Carolina          Timothy M. Kennedy, New York82Mark E. Green, MD, Tennessee (ex     Troy A. Carter, Louisiana83    officio)                         Bennie G. Thompson, Mississippi84                                         (ex officio)85             Roland Hernandez, Subcommittee Staff Director86           Alex Marston, Minority Subcommittee Staff Director8788                           C O N T E N T S8990                              ----------91                                                                   Page9293                               Statements9495The Honorable Carlos A. Gimenez, a Representative in Congress96  From the State of Florida, and Chairman, Subcommittee on97  Transportation and Maritime Security:98  Oral Statement.................................................     199  Prepared Statement.............................................     3100The Honorable LaMonica McIver, a Representative in Congress From101  the State of New Jersey, and Ranking Member, Subcommittee on102  Transportation and Maritime Security:103  Oral Statement.................................................     4104  Prepared Statement.............................................     5105The Honorable Bennie G. Thompson, a Representative in Congress106  From the State of Mississippi, and Ranking Member, Committee on107  Homeland Security:108  Oral Statement.................................................     7109  Prepared Statement.............................................     8110111                               Witnesses112113Mr. Geoff Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer, U.S.114  Travel Association:115  Oral Statement.................................................    12116  Prepared Statement.............................................    13117Mr. Jon Gruen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Fortem118  Technologies:119  Oral Statement.................................................    17120  Prepared Statement.............................................    19121Mr. Everett B. Kelley, Ph.D., National President, American122  Federation of Government Employees (AFGE):123  Oral Statement.................................................    20124  Prepared Statement.............................................    22125126                             For the Record127128The Honorable Carlos A. Gimenez, a Representative in Congress129  From the State of Florida, and Chairman, Subcommittee on130  Transportation and Maritime Security:131  Letter From Airlines for America (A4A).........................    10132The Honorable Elijah Crane, a Representative in Congress From the133  State of Arizona:134  National Transportation Statistics.............................    38135  Article, Defense Daily, October 8, 2015........................    39136  Article, ABC News, November 9, 2017............................    40137  Traffic Regulations for the U.S. Capitol Grounds...............    41138  Proposed Bill..................................................    42139140                                Appendix141142Supplemental Testimony of Geoff Freeman, President and Chief143  Executive Officer, U.S. Travel Association.....................    55144145 AMERICA ON THE GLOBAL STAGE: EXAMINING EFFORTS TO SECURE AND IMPROVE146THE U.S. TRAVEL SYSTEM AND PREPARE FOR SIGNIFICANT INTERNATIONAL EVENTS147148                              ----------149150                         Tuesday, April 8, 2025151152             U.S. House of Representatives,153                    Committee on Homeland Security,154                        Subcommittee on Transportation and155                                         Maritime Security,156                                                    Washington, DC.157    The subcommittee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:10 a.m., in158room 310, Cannon House Office Building, Hon. Carlos A. Gimenez159(Chairman of the subcommittee) presiding.160    Present: Representatives Gimenez, Crane, Biggs of South161Carolina, McIver, Kennedy of New York, and Thompson of162Mississippi (ex officio).163    Mr. Gimenez. The Homeland Security Subcommittee on164Transportation and Maritime Security will come to order.165    Without objection, the Chair may declare the subcommittee166in recess at any point.167    Before we begin today's hearings, I want to take a moment168to acknowledge the absence of a valued Member of our169subcommittee. We are mourning the loss of our friend and170colleague, Congressman Turner. Sylvester's decades of dedicated171public service to the people of Houston and his contributions172to this Nation and Congress will be remembered as part of his173lasting legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family,174especially his daughter and grandson, as they grieve his175passing and honor his life of service.176    I also want to welcome the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr.177Carter, to the subcommittee.178    Today's hearing will assess the current state of U.S.179travel security and infrastructure, evaluating the readiness of180airports, ports, and border entry points to manage large181influxes of international travelers while ensuring the security182measures, technological advancements, and operational processes183meet future needs.184    I now recognize myself for an opening statement. Good185morning, I want to thank everyone for being here today,186especially our witnesses, as we take a closer look at how the187United States is preparing to welcome the world over the next188few years for significant international events.189    Beginning this summer, the United States will step onto190global stage by housing the FIFA Club World Cup. This191tournament will feature a league of professional clubs from192around the world, such as Real Madrid, Manchester City, Inter193Miami FC, my hometown team. It will take place at select venues194throughout the United States. This event will provide an early195opportunity to stress test our travel systems, infrastructure,196and security coordination ahead of even larger events on the197horizon.198    In 2026, our country will host a FIFA World Cup with199matches played by national teams in cities across the Nation. I200am thrilled that this includes my home city of Miami. At the201same time, we will celebrate America's 250th anniversary in202July 2026, followed by the summer Olympics and Paralympics in203Los Angeles in 2028.204    When I was mayor of Miami-Dade County, I witnessed first-205hand just how much planning and hard work goes into ensuring206these major events run smoothly. As a Member of Congress, I207intend to do all I can to make sure that these international208events are safe for millions of Americans and those traveling209here or planning or attending.210    These events are more than just celebrations or211competitions; they are major opportunities to show the world212what America stands for and what we can achieve. If we get this213right, the payoff could be enormous. According to the U.S.214Travel Association, we could generate nearly $95 billion in215economic activity and welcome over 40 million international216visitors. That will only happen if we plan ahead, invest217wisely, and make sure that the travel experience in the United218States is smooth, modern, and secure.219    Right now, we have work to do. A recent report from the220United States Travel Association makes it clear that, while the221United States remains one of the top destinations for222international travels, we now rank last among the top travel223destinations when it comes to national planning and leadership.224    Long waits for visas, outdated airport technology, and225staffing shortages at our ports of entry are slowing us down.226These problems are not just frustrating; they could cost us227jobs, investment, and global influence. This is why I support228President Trump's recent Executive Order creating a White House229task force focused on the 2026 World Cup. This kind of230coordination is exactly what we need. It brings people to the231table and sends a strong message that the United States is232serious about being ready.233    I am currently working on a bill that will take this a step234further by creating a Federal task force to focus on all major235international events occurring in the United States over the236next 4 years. That includes the World Cup, America's 250th, and237the 2028 Olympics. We need to make sure every agency involved238is working together and that our policies and resources are239aligned.240    We also need to think about security. Big crowds and high-241profile venues make these big events targets. That includes242threats from drones, which are becoming more common around243stadiums and public gatherings. We need to make sure agencies244like DHS, TSA, and State and local law enforcement have the245tools and coordination they need to stop these threats in the246planning stage long before they can cause harm. We should take247this opportunity to make long-needed reforms to our travel248system. We need to make the system more thorough and effective249while still being welcoming to legitimate travelers. That means250better technology at airports, shorter visa wait times, and251making sure that we have enough officers at our ports of entry.252The world will be watching. With the right vision and253coordination, the United States can set the global standard,254not just for security but for innovation, hospitality, and255safety.256    I look forward to hearing from our witnesses about how we257turn that vision into the reality.258    [The statement of Chairman Gimenez follows:]259                Statement of Chairman Carlos A. Gimenez260                             April 8, 2025261    Good morning. I want to thank everyone for being here today,262especially our witnesses, as we take a closer look at how the United263States is preparing to welcome the world over the next few years for264significant international events.265    Beginning this summer, the United States will step onto the global266stage by hosting the FIFA Club World Cup. This tournament will feature267elite professional clubs from around the world, such as Real Madrid,268Manchester City, and Inter Miami FC, and will take place at select269venues throughout the United States. This event will provide an early270opportunity to stress-test our travel systems, infrastructure, and271security coordination ahead of even larger events on the horizon.272    In 2026, our country will host the FIFA World Cup with matches273played by national teams in cities across the Nation, and I am thrilled274that this includes my home city of Miami. At the same time, we will275celebrate America's 250th anniversary in July 2026, followed by the276Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Los Angeles in 2028. When I was277mayor of Miami-Dade County I witnessed first-hand just how much278planning and hard work goes into ensuring these major events run279smoothly. As a Member of Congress, I intend to do all I can to make280sure these international events are safe for the millions of Americans281and those traveling here who are planning on attending.282    These events are more than just celebrations or competitions. They283are major opportunities to show the world what America stands for and284what we can achieve.285    If we get this right, the payoff could be enormous. According to286the U.S. Travel Association, we could generate nearly $95 billion in287economic activity and welcome over 40 million international visitors.288But that will only happen if we plan ahead, invest wisely, and make289sure the travel experience in the United States is smooth, modern, and290secure.291    Right now, we have work to do. A recent report from the U.S. Travel292Association made it clear that while the United States remains one of293the top destinations for international travelers; we now rank last294among the top travel destinations when it comes to national planning295and leadership. Long waits for visas, outdated airport technology, and296staffing shortages at our ports of entry are slowing us down. These297problems are not just frustrating, they could cost us jobs, investment,298and global influence.299    That is why I support President Trump's recent Executive Order300creating a White House Task Force focused on the 2026 World Cup. This301kind of coordination is exactly what we need. It brings the right302people to the table and sends a strong message that the United States303is serious about being ready.304    I'm currently working on a bill that would take this a step further305by creating a Federal task force to focus on all major international306events occurring in the United States over the next 4 years. That307includes the World Cup, America's 250th, and the 2028 Olympics. We need308to make sure every agency involved is working together and that our309policies and resources are aligned.310    We also need to think about security. Big crowds and high-profile311venues make these events a target. That includes threats from drones,312which are becoming more common around stadiums and public gatherings.313We need to make sure agencies like DHS, TSA, and State and local law314enforcement have the tools and coordination they need to stop these315threats in the planning stage, long before they can cause harm.316    We should take this opportunity to make long-needed reforms to our317travel system. We need to make the system more thorough and effective,318while still being welcoming to legitimate travelers. That means better319technology at airports, shorter visa wait times and making sure we have320enough officers at our ports of entry.321    The world will be watching. And with the right vision and322coordination, the United States can set the global standard--not just323for security, but for innovation, hospitality, and safety. I look324forward to hearing from our witnesses about how we turn that vision325into reality.326327    Mr. Gimenez. Now I recognize the Ranking Member, the328gentlewoman from New Jersey, Mrs. McIver, for her opening329statements.330    Mrs. McIver. Good morning. Thank you to our witnesses for331joining us today.332    Thank you to Chairman Gimenez for holding today's hearing.333    I too want to join in on just expressing our condolences334and sympathy to Representative Turner's family--who passed335away, who was a part of this committee--as we continue to pray336and keep his family and his friends and his close colleagues in337our thoughts. So definitely join us in that and sending well338wishes to his family.339    The travel and tourism industry is a vital part of the U.S.340economy. In November 2021, President Biden signed the341Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into law, providing a342$1.2 trillion investment in American transportation and343infrastructure. In December 2022, President Biden signed an344omnibus spending package into law funding pay raises and an345expanded collective bargaining framework for TSA employees.346These historic investments have helped spur continued growth in347U.S. travel and tourism and helped secure our transportation348networks.349    In 2024, travel in the United States produced an economic350output of $2.8 trillion and supported more than 15 million351American jobs, and record numbers of passengers traveled352through TSA security checkpoints. To continue to grow the U.S.353travel system and prepare for upcoming international events,354any sane administration would continue to invest in our355infrastructure, update our security technology, and support our356Federal work force.357    Unfortunately, President Trump and Republicans in Congress358are doing the exact opposite. Take for example making359investments in cutting-edge security technology to fund new CT360scanners and other equipment at TSA checkpoints at the361necessary scale and pace. Congress must stop using passenger362security fee collections as a slush fund and return that money363to TSA. But, instead, Republicans are considering increasing364passenger security fees and using that money to help pay for365tax cuts for billionaires, according to a document showing366their reconciliation plans.367    Republicans want to charge airline passengers more and then368put the money in billionaire pockets. The passenger security369fee was created to help fund TSA and prevent another 9/11, but370Republicans care more about giving tax cuts to billionaires.371That's despicable.372    Let's turn to work force issues. Transportation security373officers are the backbone of our transportation security system374as they screen millions of passengers and pieces of luggage375every day to keep our skies safe. Yet, over the past month,376President Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem377have taken the first steps in dismantling the professional378aviation security work force we have worked so hard to build379over the past 2 decades.380    On March 7, Secretary Noem ended TSA's 7-year collective381bargaining agreement and dismantled union rights in a political382and illegal move to advance President Trump's union-busting383agenda. I am glad this move is being challenged in the courts.384But, in the mean time, it undermines the TSO work force just as385it had finally stabilized after decades of high attrition.386    Worse yet, the termination of TSA's collective bargain387agreement may pave the way for Project 2025's goal of388privatizing the agency, an effort Republicans in Congress are389already trying to advance. Privatizing more than 400 airports390and over 50,000 screening officers would throw the entire391aviation security system into chaos and return us to the pre-9/39211 model that failed to prevent the largest terrorist attack in393U.S. history.394    Democrats will fight tooth and nail to prevent Republicans395from sacrificing our national security at the altar of396corporate greed. Unfortunately, the problems the Trump397administration is creating for travel and tourism industry go398well beyond TSA. In 2024, the International Trade399Administration reported a 9 percent increase of international400visitors to the United States. Under the Biden administration,401U.S. tourism was booming and open for business. However, in402just 2 months since President Trump took office, he has managed403to throw that all away by detaining tourists, attacking allies,404and tanking the economy.405    The list of countries that have changed their advisory to406warn travelers to the United States of potential risk is407growing longer by the day. That list now includes the United408Kingdom, Germany, Norway, Ireland, the Netherlands, Denmark,409Finland, Belgium, and Canada.410    Canadians who visit the United States more than anyone are411now canceling their trips, as flight bookings from Canada have412dropped by 70 percent. Since Trump took office, several413travelers trying to enter the United States have been turned414away or detained for days or weeks with little to no415explanation.416    A French scientist scheduled to attend a conference in417Houston was turned away reportedly because his personal device418contained opinions criticizing Trump's research's policies. A419Canadian was put in a jumpsuit and chains and detained for over4202 weeks as she legally went through the process to obtain a421work visa. A German tourist spent more than 6 weeks in a422detention center, including 8 days in solitary confinement,423because she was traveling with tattooing equipment.424    Through these cases and others, Donald Trump is sending the425message that visitors to the United States may be arrested426without explanation. Trump is sending a message that the United427States is closed for business. Trump's policies put at risk428trillions of dollars in tourism spending and millions of429American jobs. Let me be clear, if you aren't, even from430watching the news today: Donald Trump is tanking the economy.431    I look forward to discussing with our witnesses how the432dire situation will impact our national security and the433success of upcoming high-profile events like the World Cup and434the Olympics.435    Thank you. With that, I yield back.436    [The statement of Ranking Member McIver follows:]437              Statement of Ranking Member LaMonica McIver438                             April 8, 2025439    The travel and tourism industry is a vital part of the U.S.440economy.441    In November 2021, President Biden signed the Infrastructure442Investment and Jobs Act into law, providing a $1.2 trillion investment443in American transportation and infrastructure. In December 2022,444President Biden signed an omnibus spending package into law, funding445pay raises and an expanded collective bargaining framework for TSA446employees.447    These historic investments have helped spur continued growth in448U.S. travel and tourism and helped secure our transportation networks.449In 2024, travel in the United States produced an economic output of450$2.8 trillion and supported more than 15 million American jobs, and451record numbers of passengers traveled through TSA security checkpoints.452    To continue to grow the U.S. travel system and prepare for upcoming453international events, any sane administration would continue to invest454in our infrastructure, update our security technology, and support our455Federal workforce. Unfortunately, President Trump and Republicans in456Congress are doing the exact opposite. Take, for example, making457investments in cutting-edge security technology.458    To fund new CT scanners and other equipment at TSA checkpoints at459the necessary scale and pace, Congress must stop using Passenger460Security Fee collections as a slush fund and return that money to TSA.461But instead, House Republicans are considering increasing Passenger462Security Fees and using that money to help pay for tax cuts for463billionaires, according to a document showing their reconciliation464plans. Republicans want to charge airline passengers more and then put465that money in billionaires' pockets.466    The Passenger Security Fee was created to help fund TSA and prevent467another 9/11--but Republicans care more about giving tax cuts to468billionaires. That's despicable. Let's turn to workforce issues.469    Transportation Security Officers are the backbone of our470transportation security system, as they screen millions of passengers471and pieces of luggage every day to keep our skies safe. Yet over the472past month, President Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi473Noem have taken the first steps in dismantling the professional474aviation security workforce we have worked so hard to build over the475past 2 decades.476    On March 7, Secretary Noem ended TSA's 7-year collective bargaining477agreement and dismantled union rights in a blatantly political and478illegal move to advance President Trump's union-busting agenda. I am479glad this move is being challenged in the courts, but in the mean time480it undermines the TSO work force just as it had finally stabilized481after decades of high attrition.482    Worse yet, the termination of TSA's collective bargaining agreement483may pave the way for Project 2025's goal of privatizing the agency--an484effort Republicans in Congress are already trying to advance.485    Privatizing more than 400 airports and over 50,000 screening486officers would throw the entire aviation security system into chaos and487return us to the pre-9/11 model that failed to prevent the largest488terrorist attack in U.S. history. Democrats will fight tooth and nail489to prevent Republicans from sacrificing our national security at the490altar of corporate greed. Unfortunately, the problems the Trump491administration is creating for the travel and tourism industry go well492beyond the TSA.493    In 2024, the International Trade Administration reported a 9494percent increase of international visitors to the United States. Under495the Biden administration, U.S. tourism was booming and open for496business. However, in just the 2 months since President Trump took497office, he has managed to throw that all away by detaining tourists,498attacking allies, and tanking the economy. The list of countries that499have changed their advisories to warn travelers to the United States of500potential risks is growing longer by the day.501    That list now includes the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway,502Ireland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Belgium, and Canada.503Canadians, who visit the United States more than anyone, are now504canceling their trips, as flight bookings from Canada have dropped by50570 percent. Since Trump took office, several travelers trying to enter506the United States have been turned away or detained for days or weeks507with little to no explanation.508    A French scientist scheduled to attend a conference in Houston was509turned away reportedly because his personal device contained opinions510criticizing Trump's research policies. A Canadian citizen was put in a511jumpsuit and chains and detained for over 2 weeks as she legally went512through the process to obtain a work visa. A German tourist spent more513than 6 weeks in a detention center, including 8 days in solitary514confinement, because she was traveling with tattooing equipment.515    Through these cases and others, Donald Trump is sending the message516that visitors to the United States may be arrested without explanation.517Trump is sending the message that the United States is closed for518business. Trump's policies put at risk trillions of dollars in tourism519spending and millions of American jobs. Let me be clear: Donald Trump520is tanking the economy.521    I look forward to discussing with our witnesses how this dire522situation will impact our national security and the success of upcoming523high-profile events like the World Cup and the Olympics.524525    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you.526    I now recognize the Ranking Member of the committee, the527gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Thompson.528    Mr. Thompson. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.529    Let me welcome our witnesses on the panel today.530    I am glad the subcommittee is examining the state of U.S.531travel system ahead of high-profile international events. The532outlook for the World Cup, the Olympics, and other major events533set to be hosted in the United States over the next few years534is dire. In just a couple of short months in office, Donald535Trump and his Republican lackeys have done tremendous damage to536the U.S. travel and tourism. People visiting the United States537can no longer be confident that they will be treated fairly by538our Government.539    Just last week, a renowned mixed martial arts fighter and540coach trying to visit the United States for a seminar was541detained upon entry, sent to a Federal detention facility, and542ultimately sent back to Australia--all without little543explanation. If this is how we treat foreign athletes and544coaches visiting the United States, one can only imagine how545the World Cup and Olympics will go.546    This is just one of the many instances of the Trump547administration inflicting unnecessary trauma upon foreign548visitors. The cruelty is the point. Donald Trump apparently549does not want foreign visitors to visit the United States, even550though travel represented $2.8 trillion of U.S. economic output551in 2023.552    The impact of Trump's chaotic and undefined detention and553deportation policies is already apparent. Canada, the United554Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Belgium,555and the Netherlands have all updated travel guidance for people556visiting the United States to warn of potential for detention557or discrimination. Airline bookings from Canada, which provides558the most visitors to the United States by far, is already down55970 percent. The impacts of this loss of international travel560will be devastating to local economies.561    In 2023, more than $1.3 trillion in travel spending562contributed $89 billion in tax revenue to States and563communities across the country. More than 15 million American564workers are either directly employed or heavily supported by565the travel industry.566    Some of those workers are also facing more direct assaults567from the Trump administration. Last month, Secretary of568Homeland Security Kristi Noem issued a memo to strip TSA569employees of their union rights and rescind their existing570collective bargaining agreement. Transportation security571officers screen millions of passengers every day to protect air572travel. For many years, the TSA work force was plagued by low573morale and high attrition.574    In 2022, President Biden signed into law an omnibus575spending bill providing pay raises and funding and expanded576collective bargaining framework for TSOs. Those measures have577had a dramatic impact on TSA's ability to carry out its578security mission, as attrition has dropped in half.579    Undoing this progress is dumb, cruel, and illegal. The580Secretary cannot unilaterally rescind a binding legal contract.581I hope the courts will put a stop to this nakedly political582madness. In the mean time, I am proud to have reintroduced my583bill, the Rights for the TSA Workforce Act, which would provide584TSA workers with full collective bargaining rights and a fair585pay under title 5 of the U.S. Code.586    Now is the time for Members of both parties to stand up587against Donald Trump and push back against his cruel and588foolish policies. Donald Trump is putting America last. The589U.S. travel and tourism industry will be among the Trump590administration's first casualties if we do not change course591quickly.592    Thank you again to our witnesses for joining us today to593discuss this critical challenge.594    I yield back, Mr. Chair.595    [The statement of Ranking Member Thompson follows:]596             Statement of Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson597                             April 8, 2025598    The outlook for the World Cup, the Olympics, and other major events599set to be hosted in the United States over the next few years is dire.600    In just a couple short months in office, Donald Trump and his601Republican lackeys have done tremendous damage to U.S. travel and602tourism. People visiting the United States can no longer be confident603they will be treated fairly by our Government.604    Just last week, a renowned mixed martial arts fighter and coach605trying to visit the United States for a seminar was detained upon606entry, sent to a Federal detention facility, and ultimately sent back607to Australia--all with little explanation. If this is how we treat608foreign athletes and coaches visiting the United States, one can only609imagine how the World Cup and Olympics will go.610    This is just one of many instances of the Trump administration611inflicting unnecessary trauma upon foreign visitors. The cruelty is the612point.613    Donald Trump apparently does not want foreign travelers to visit614the United States, even though travel represented $2.8 trillion of U.S.615economic output in 2023. The impact of Trump's chaotic and undefined616detention and deportation policies is already apparent.617    Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, Norway, Finland,618Denmark, Belgium, and the Netherlands have all updated travel guidance619for people visiting the United States to warn of the potential for620detention or discrimination. Airline bookings from Canada--which621provides the most visitors to the United States by far--are already622down 70 percent.623    The impacts of this loss of international travelers will be624devastating to local economies. In 2023, more than $1.3 trillion in625travel spending contributed $89 billion in tax revenues in States and626communities across the country. More than 15 million American workers627are either directly employed or heavily supported by the travel628industry. Some of those workers are also facing more direct assaults629from the Trump administration.630    Last month, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem issued a631memo to strip TSA employees of their union rights and rescind their632existing collective bargaining agreement. Transportation Security633Officers screen millions of passengers every day to protect air travel.634For many years, the TSA workforce was plagued by low morale and high635attrition.636    In 2022, President Biden signed into law an omnibus spending bill637providing pay raises and funding an expanded collective bargaining638framework for TSOs. Those measures have had a dramatic impact on TSA's639ability to carry out its security mission, as attrition has dropped in640half. Undoing this progress is dumb, cruel, and illegal.641    The Secretary cannot unilaterally rescind a binding legal contract.642I hope the courts will put a stop to this nakedly political madness. In643the mean time, I am proud to have reintroduced by bill, the Rights for644the TSA Workforce Act, which would provide TSA workers with full645collective bargaining rights and fair pay under title 5 of the U.S.646Code.647    Now is the time for Members of both parties to stand up to Donald648Trump and push back against his cruel and foolish policies. Donald649Trump is putting America last. The U.S. travel and tourism industry650will be among the Trump administration's first casualties if we do not651change course quickly.652653    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you to the Ranking Member.654    Other Members of the committee are reminded that opening655statements may be submitted for the record.656    I am pleased to have a distinguished panel of witnesses657before us today on this critical topic. I ask that our658witnesses please rise and raise your right hands.659    [Witnesses sworn.]660    Mr. Gimenez. Let the record reflect that the witnesses have661answered in the affirmative.662    Thank you and please be seated.663    I would now like to formally introduce our witnesses. Mr.664Geoff Freeman is the president and CEO of the U.S. Travel665Association, the leading advocate for $1.1 trillion U.S. travel666and hospitality industry. Mr. Freeman is a seasoned association667CEO with a proven track record of building successful668organizations that unite members' interest, grow members'669values, increase revenue and unlock growth opportunities. Prior670to joining U.S. travel, Freeman was president and CEO of the671Consumer Brands Association, the trade association for672America's $2.1 trillion food, beverage, and consumer products673industry.674    Mr. Jon Gruen is the CEO and executive chairman of Foreign675Technologies, a tech company that provides artificial-676intelligence-enabled air space awareness and counter-drone677solutions to defense, law enforcement, and commercial678customers. Previously, Mr. Gruen was a corporate business679development and strategy lead for Lockheed Martin. Prior to680joining Lockheed Martin, Mr. Gruen was a Navy SEAL officer,681where he served in increasing leadership positions in Operation682Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He is currently a683Naval Reserve captain and has commanded unmanned air systems684and technology innovation units. Jon received his bachelor of685science degree from the United States Naval Academy and686received his master of business administration from the Haas687School of Business, University of California Berkeley.688    Dr. Everett Kelley is the national president of the689American Federation of Government Employees, which is the690largest union representing Federal and D.C. government691employees. He began his first term of service as national692president in February 2020, was elected to another term during693the 42nd national convention in June 2022, and was reelected694during the 43rd national convention in August 2024. Dr. Kelley695has been a member of AFGE since 1981. He worked at Anniston696Army Depot and retired from there after 30 years of service.697    I thank each of our distinguished witnesses for being here698today. Also, I would like to offer the following letter from699the Airlines for America, for the record.700    Without objection, so ordered.701    [The information follows:]702                 Letter From Airlines for America (A4A)703                                     April 4, 2025.704The Honorable Carlos A. Gimenez,705Chairman, U.S. House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation706        and Maritime Security, H2-176 Ford House Office Building,707        Washington, DC 20515.708RE: Hearing on ``America on the Global Stage: Examining Efforts to709Secure and Improve the U.S. Travel System for Significant International710Events.''711712    Dear Chairman Gimenez: As the United States prepares for upcoming713international events over the next decade, Airlines for America714(A4A)\1\ welcomes the opportunity to submit comments for the record715regarding your hearing entitled ``America on the Global Stage:716Examining Efforts to Secure and Improve the U.S. Travel System for717Significant International Events.''718---------------------------------------------------------------------------719    \1\ A4A is the trade association for the leading U.S. airlines,720both passenger and cargo carriers. Members of the association are721Alaska Airlines; American Airlines; Atlas Air; Delta Air Lines; FedEx;722Hawaiian Airlines; JetBlue Airways; Southwest Airlines; United723Airlines; and UPS. Air Canada is an associate member.724---------------------------------------------------------------------------725    With preparations already under way for the FIFA Club World Cup in7262025, FIFA World Cup 2026, and the International Summer Olympic Games727in 2028, A4A and our member airlines are committed to working with the728Government to ensure transit to and from these events is safe and729secure. Aviation plays a key role in our Nation's critical730infrastructure and our sector's operations are dependent and reliant731upon the Federal agencies we interact with including the Transportation732Security Administration (TSA) and the U.S. Customs and Border733Protection (CBP).734    As a result of these dependencies and as the subcommittee provides735oversight of the preparation of these events, A4A offers the following736recommendations for consideration:737 designate events appropriately to ensure interagency coordination and738            adequate human and technology capital investment739    A4A member airlines are adept at supporting high-profile events740designated as Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) events or National741Special Security Events (NSSE) by the Department of Homeland Security742(DHS). In these instances, the DHS applies a risk-based methodology to743assign a rating based on the threat, vulnerability, and consequences744for each event. These security ratings determine the level of Federal745assistance needed to support large-scale events with supplemental746resources such as the TSA's Federal Air Marshals (FAMS), Visible747Intermodal Protection and Response (VIPR) teams, explosive detection748canine teams, venue screening and field intelligence teams, and forward749deployed Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) as a part of the750National Deployment Force (NDF). TSA has demonstrated its ability to751adequately staff and support similar events as seen during last year's752Superbowl and the Republican and Democratic National Conventions, which753occurred without any significant aviation security risks or operational754impacts.755    Adequately staffing the DHS component agencies which support the756aviation sector is vital to our industry. U.S. airlines operate 27,000757flights per day around the globe, transporting an average of 2.7758million passengers to/from more than 80 countries each day and move759more than 61 tons of cargo daily to/from more than 220 countries.760Domestically, in 2024 alone, U.S. airlines set records for single-day761passenger travel, TSA had over 30 record-setting passenger screening762days, and on Sunday, December 1, 2024, the TSA set an all-time high763record surpassing 3 million passengers screened in a single day.764Internationally, in 2024, U.S.travel grew 9 percent year over year765surpassing the largest domestic growth rate since the pandemic. In766order for these trends to continue, and to be accommodated, it is767paramount that TSA and CBP are provided the leadership and resources768needed to adequately plan for future passenger travel and cargo769transportation demands and the staffing levels necessary to effectively770and efficiently operate airport checkpoints and major Ports of Entry771(POEs).772    One major component of providing those resources would be the773repeal of the diversion of TSA Passenger Security Fee, as all fees774collected for security should go directly toward their intended775purpose. Ending diversion would restore $10 billion in funding to776modernize TSA and put new identity verification, on-person screening777and baggage scanning technology in every U.S. airport lane within 5778years. Equally important are investments in checked baggage screening779Explosive Detection Systems (EDS), cargo screening algorithms,780detection standards, and at-scale screening methods to include the use781of canine.782    Additionally, since 2004, checked baggage EDS recapitalization has783been funded by the Aviation Security Capital Fund (ASCF). The ASCF784currently provides $250 million each fiscal year, and its authorization785will sunset at the end of fiscal year if not extended or modernized. We786urge the committee to ensure these important technology funds remain a787priority.788prioritize advance planning and information sharing to manage aviation789                    security and operational impacts790    In 2024, A4A reported a record-setting summer travel season791transporting an increase of 6.3 percent more passengers than the year792prior. As international passenger travel returned last year, CBP793experienced a significant number of peak passenger facilitation days as794well.795    In addition to TSA's ability to support SEAR 1 and NSSEs, it must796manage operations during peak travel seasons in the United States797including spring break, Memorial Day, July 4th, and other significant798holiday periods. A4A and our member airlines have robust stakeholder799engagement at both the Headquarters and local airport levels.800Bidirectional communication and information sharing is critical for801advance planning to ensure adequate resources are available and802contingency plans are ready in anticipation of unexpected weather,803screening equipment failures, or other unforeseen events. In advance of804peak travel periods, TSA briefs industry on its operational staffing805plans that includes key metrics projecting how many people are expected806to travel and undergo screening, the estimated busiest travel days807based on prior year and estimated growth data, how many officers are808needed to support screening operations and what their plans are for809forward deploying officers or other additional resources like passenger810screening canine teams or prepositioning equipment parts to the busiest811airport locations.812    As the United States prepares for these significant international813events, TSA must also consider creative ways to manage unprecedented814travel volumes and the pressure this will put on the traditional815checkpoint locations. The Reimbursable Screening Services Program816(RSSP) is a pilot program that enables TSA to be reimbursed for817establishing and providing screening services outside an airport818terminal's existing primary screening area for passengers. Authorized819as a pilot program by Congress in 2019, this allows TSA to enter into820reimbursable agreements with up to 8 TSA regulated entities, as821outlined in 49 CFR Part 1500, to provide screening services at822locations other than primary passenger terminal screening areas. Under823program agreements, selected participants will reimburse TSA fully for824all personnel and non-personnel costs associated with establishing and825providing these additional security screening services. Congress should826extend this authorization to allow for a larger number of locations and827for a longer period of time.828 leverage innovation for security and facilitation during large-scale829                                 events830    The airline industry drives innovation through constant investment831in new technologies and services. We believe industry's contributions832lead to better security and facilitation outcomes. The aviation833industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with new technologies834being integrated into every aspect. From on-line booking and self-835service check-in to biometric identification and artificial836intelligence, technology is changing how we travel. In the last year,837there has been a significant increase in the use of biometric838technology, such as facial recognition, at airports for security and839boarding procedures. This technology enhances security and efficiency840while improving the passenger experience by reducing wait times and841eliminating the need for physical document checks.842    By investing in modernized infrastructure and technologies, the843United States can reduce long airport screening times, streamline844customs processes, and eliminate bureaucratic delays, all while845strengthening national security. CBP is working with industry on846solutions that improve the arrival process. For example, Seamless847Border Entry (SBE) is a new benefit for trusted travelers that provides848a touchless experience and minimizes delays while entering the country849through Global Entry. Similarly, CBP is working with aviation850stakeholders to make improvements to the international arrival process851for U.S. Citizens in the air environment. The Enhanced Passenger852Process (EPP) leverages technology to increase efficiencies by853connecting the passenger's identity through the auto-capture photograph854of a traveler; conducting a U.S. citizen check and performing a real-855time vetting check. Our members are working closely with CBP to promote856the use of digital applications such as Global Entry (GE), NEXUS,857SENTRI, and Mobile Passport Control (MPC) to help expedite the arrival858of eligible passengers, allowing CBP to focus on processing the859additional volume of arriving foreign nationals. We recommend the860committee support and encourage DHS, CBP, and TSA effectively utilizing861and leveraging innovation to better the travel experience.862    The use of recreational drones during special events or the863potential for nefarious activity is something DHS and Congress should864take seriously and ensure Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS)865legislation is passed. Federal agencies have long called for expanded866C-UAS authorities beyond the Department of Justice and DHS remit, and867A4A would like to see TSA designated as a lead Federal agency with868authority to detect, track, identify, and mitigate threats to aviation869in the airport environment.870    Thank you for the opportunity to provide recommendations and we871look forward to working with the committee to help promote innovation872while prioritizing the safety and security of the traveling public.873            Sincerely,874                                           Haley Gallagher,875   Vice President, Security and Facilitation, Airlines for America.876877    Mr. Gimenez. I now recognize Mr. Freeman for 5 minutes to878summarize his statement.879    Mr. Freeman, you're recognized for 5 minutes.880881   STATEMENT OF GEOFF FREEMAN, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE882                OFFICER, U.S. TRAVEL ASSOCIATION883884    Mr. Freeman. Thank you, Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member885McIver, Ranking Member Thompson, Congressman Crane, I886appreciate the opportunity to be with you today.887    I'm Jeff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel888Association, representing all aspects of the $2 trillion travel889industry: airlines, airports, theme parks, hotels, destinations890from coast to coast. I want to thank you at the outset for your891appreciation for the travel industry and the impact that it892has.893    Travel is a vital economic engine, contributing nearly $3894trillion annually and supporting more than 15 million jobs895across the United States, more than 10 percent of our Nation's896work force.897    Travel strengthens America's global standing, encourages898business and cultural exchange, and generates significant tax899revenue. In 2024, international visitors alone contributed $181900billion to our economy.901    But we can't count on this continued success without902investments and reforms. Our infrastructure is failing to keep903pace with the increasing demand for travel. For example, the904Transportation Security Administration screened more than 3905million travelers on 2 occasions last year. By 2028, we are906projected to see 100 days per year with that same volume. Our907systems, from security to customs to air traffic control, are908outdated and not prepared for this surge.909    It is not just about inefficiencies. It is also about910global competition. Countries like China, India, and Saudi911Arabia are making rapid advancements to their travel912infrastructure, and we risk falling behind if we don't act913swiftly.914    The next decade presents a tremendous opportunity. Major915events like the 2026 World Cup, America's 250th anniversary,916and the 2028 Olympics are expected to spur domestic travel and917bring millions of international travelers to the United States.918But, without modernizing our travel infrastructure, we will not919capture the full economic benefit of these events.920    President Trump's creation of the White House task force921for the World Cup is a step in the right direction, but much922more is necessary to ensure that our country can maximize the923travel opportunity.924    To help meet these challenges U.S. Travel developed a925comprehensive blueprint for the future of American travel,926focusing on the following key policy recommendations: No. 1, we927need greater government leadership. Travel needs dedicated928leadership at the highest levels of government. We urge929Congress and the administration to prioritize travel policy and930create a sustainable model for overseeing travel improvements931from end to end.932    No. 2, we've got to address visa processing reform. Long933delays and visitor visa processing hurts our ability to attract934international visitors. We recommend providing full-strength935consular staffing, extending visa validity for vetted lawful936visitors, and establishing a national vetting service to lead937visa processing. This will ensure the United States remains an938attractive destination while maintaining strong national939security.940    No. 3, we have got to revolutionize TSA screening. Airport941screening relies on inconsistent, unpleasant, and manual942processes. We recommend immediately ending the diversion of the943passenger security fee and increasing technology funding to944place new identity verification on person-screening and945baggage-screening technology in every U.S. airport lane within946the next 5 years. This will improve security, reduce wait947times, and create a more seamless experience, allowing all948travelers to carry water bottles and larger liquids, leave all949electronics in their bags, and keep their shoes, jackets, and950belts on their person.951    Finally, we have got to create a world-class customs952process. We need to modernize the international arrival process953for our guests. We recommend increasing CBP officer staffing at954airports of entry while using biometric technology and enhanced955traveler vetting to reduce processing times. This will allow956the automated entry of trusted travelers and returning957Americans while enabling CBP officers to focus their inspection958efforts on unknown individuals.959    These 4 steps are critical to ensuring the United States960remains a global leader in travel and that our infrastructure961can handle the increasing demand. The status quo is not an962option. Travel demand is growing. Our infrastructure is aging.963Global competitors are moving quickly. If we fail to act, we964risk losing economic opportunities, diminishing America's965competitive edge, and foregoing millions of foreign visitors.966    Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward967to answering any questions you may have.968    [The prepared statement of Mr. Freeman follows:]969                  Prepared Statement of Geoff Freeman970                             April 8, 2025971    Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member McIver, Chairman Green, Ranking972Member Thompson, and Members of the Subcommittee on Transportation and973Maritime Security: Thank you for the opportunity to testify today on974behalf of the U.S. Travel Association. I am Geoff Freeman, president975and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, the leading organization976advocating for the travel industry in the United States. Our977association represents every segment of the travel industry--airlines,978airports, hotels, theme parks, rental car companies, cruise lines, and979destinations--working together to grow travel to and within the United980States.981         1. introduction to u.s. travel and the travel industry982    Travel is an economic powerhouse in the United States, driving983nearly $2.9 trillion in economic activity each year. The travel984industry supports more than 15 million jobs across the country--985representing more than 10 percent of the U.S. workforce. These jobs986span a diverse range of sectors, from aviation to hospitality to987destination services. Beyond the numbers, travel drives critical tax988revenue at the Federal, State, and local levels and strengthens989America's standing in the world by fostering international diplomacy990and business.991    In 2024, international visitors injected $181 billion into our992economy. Beyond its economic contributions, the travel industry helps993strengthen America's standing globally, attracts talent and investment,994and encourages cultural exchange. The United States is a world leader995in travel, but we now face growing challenges that threaten both the996future of the industry and America's competitive edge.997            2. the american travel system is under pressure998    The reality is: Bold leadership is required now to prioritize999travel. Our travel systems are under pressure, and without immediate1000action, we risk falling behind. Last year, TSA broke records screening1001more than 3 million passengers not once, but twice. By next year, TSA1002will hit that number 50 times annually--equivalent to 50 Thanksgiving1003days in a single year. By 2028, we're looking at 100 days per year with10043 million screenings. These numbers reflect the exponential growth in1005demand for air travel, as more people travel domestically and1006internationally.1007    However, our travel infrastructure is not equipped to handle these1008increasing numbers. We face:1009   Bureaucratic inefficiencies.--Long wait times at TSA1010        checkpoints, customs, and visa processing hurt both the travel1011        experience and our economy.1012   Outdated technology.--Much of our air traffic control (ATC)1013        infrastructure still uses antiquated systems that need1014        modernizing. Airport security and customs technology also need1015        significant investment to streamline passenger flow and1016        maintain high security standards.1017   Global competition.--Countries like China, India, and Saudi1018        Arabia are rapidly advancing their travel infrastructure,1019        putting the United States at risk of losing market share. These1020        nations are making massive investments in their travel sectors,1021        leaving the United States vulnerable if we don't act1022        decisively.1023    Without modernization, we risk not only missing out on economic1024opportunities but also failing to meet the growing demands of global1025travelers. The competition is moving fast, and we must accelerate our1026own efforts to keep pace.1027           3. golden opportunity with a mega decade of events1028    The next decade presents an extraordinary opportunity for the1029United States to further solidify its leadership in global travel.1030Major events over the next 4 years such as the 2025 Club World Cup,1031Ryder Cup, the 2026 World Cup, America's 250th anniversary, and 20281032Olympics are expected to contribute nearly $100 billion in economic1033activity and bring an estimated 40 million international travelers.1034    However, with this tremendous opportunity comes a set of1035challenges. The surge in travel will place immense pressure on our1036infrastructure, and we must ensure we are ready to handle the increased1037demand. This means addressing key issues in safety, security, and1038efficient travel facilitation. If we fail to modernize and adapt, we1039risk not fully capturing the economic benefits and the potential for1040growth these events will bring, while giving our competitors the chance1041to question our leadership on the global stage.1042    We are grateful for President Trump's immediate action to establish1043the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will1044provide senior leadership and coordination across Government to ensure1045the United States is fully prepared to accommodate the millions of1046travelers expected for the 2025 Club World Cup and the 2026 World Cup.1047By bringing together the necessary resources and expertise, the task1048force will provide the foundation for a transformative mega decade of1049events that will benefit not only the travel industry but the Nation as1050a whole.1051    Through this effort, we have an opportunity to drive innovation,1052modernize infrastructure, and ensure America remains a premier1053destination for travel and business. With careful planning and1054strategic investments, we can leverage this moment to further1055strengthen our economy, enhance security, and showcase America's role1056as a global leader in the travel and hospitality sectors.1057                4. vision for american travel dominance1058    To meet these challenges head-on, U.S. Travel has worked alongside1059a slate of distinguished commission of leaders to create a1060comprehensive blueprint for the future of American travel. This is the1061Congress that can truly usher in robust innovation, make wholesale1062upgrades, and create a new system that sets America apart from the rest1063of the world.1064    Our proposed solutions focus on transforming the entire travel1065experience, from pre-travel planning to arrival, to ensure a seamless1066and secure process for travelers. The United States is currently the1067only G20 nation without a dedicated leader or agency overseeing travel1068policy. We encourage Congress and the administration to ensure a1069similar sustainable model that prioritizes travel policy and drives1070meaningful progress for decades to come.1071    Our full report and recommendations can be viewed at1072showcaseamericantravel.org and I have included an executive summary of1073the report as an addendum to my testimony. Here are the key components1074of our vision:1075   Government Leadership.--Bold leadership from the highest1076        levels of government is essential. We commend President Trump's1077        creation of Task Force 250 and the 2026 World Cup Task Force,1078        and we urge continued focus on ensuring our travel1079        infrastructure is ready for the future.1080   Visa Processing Reform.--Long delays in visa processing1081        remain a major barrier to attracting international visitors--1082        with some U.S. embassies and consulates seeing more than 400-1083        day wait times for visa applicants to secure an interview. We1084        recommend reforms to streamline and reduce bureaucratic delays,1085        ensuring that the United States remains an attractive1086        destination for global travelers while continuing to strengthen1087        national security.1088   Revolutionizing TSA Screening.--It's time to rethink1089        aviation security. The last breakthrough in airport screening1090        was TSA PreCheck, which is more than a decade old. It's time1091        for the next big leap in innovation. By equipping every TSA1092        lane with state-of-the-art biometrics, advanced imaging1093        technology (AIT), and Computed Tomography (CT) baggage scanners1094        within 5 years, we can significantly improve security while1095        reducing wait times. A largely manual operation that creates an1096        inefficient and unpleasant process for both officers and1097        travelers can become a modern, automated experience where1098        officers focus on risk and travelers can carry larger liquids1099        and leave their shoes, jackets, and belts on.1100   Creating a World-Class Customs Process.--We must modernize1101        U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations to make the1102        arrival process as seamless as possible. This means1103        implementing advanced traveler vetting and biometric1104        capabilities to dramatically reduce processing times at1105        airports--allowing U.S. travelers to clear customs faster than1106        ever, and Trusted Travelers passing through without even1107        stopping--thanks to full automation. With the right tools and1108        increased CBP staffing at international airports, we can1109        maintain the highest levels of security while facilitating the1110        smooth entry of millions of lawful visitors for these global1111        events.1112   Modern and Fully-Staffed Air Traffic Control System.--The1113        Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is approximately 3,0001114        controllers short of its staffing needs and 77 percent of the1115        most critical facilities across the system are understaffed.1116        The ATC system relies on decades-old radar, paper strips, and1117        systems run on floppy disks. We applaud President Trump and1118        Secretary Duffy for their commitment to expanding pathways for1119        controller certification. We call on Congress to do its part by1120        providing full funding for ATC staffing, providing emergency1121        appropriations to rapidly upgrade key parts of the ATC system,1122        and by designating ATC investments as mandatory spending.1123                             5. conclusion1124    The next decade represents a defining moment for the American1125travel experience. The status quo is not an option. Travel demand is1126surging, our infrastructure is aging, and global competitors are moving1127fast. If we fail to act, we risk turning travelers away, ceding1128economic opportunities, and compromising our leadership in the world.1129The steps we take today will determine whether the United States1130remains the global leader in travel or struggles to keep pace with1131competitors.1132    Travel is not just an economic driver--it is essential to America's1133global competitiveness and leadership. U.S. Travel stands ready to1134partner with Congress and the administration to ensure we modernize our1135infrastructure and unlock the full economic potential of our travel1136system. But we cannot afford to wait. This is the future of travel.1137It's bold, it's achievable--and it's time to make it happen.1138    I look forward to working with you to make this vision a reality.1139Thank you for your time and consideration. I am happy to answer any1140questions you may have.1141                           Executive Summary1142    America is no longer the top destination for global travel.1143International visitation to the United States peaked in 2018 under1144President Trump but has failed to reach those levels since. The United1145States now ranks behind Spain and France in the global competition for1146visitors. China is on a path to catch or surpass us over the next1147decade. Our competitors are investing billions to leapfrog the United1148States and win a bigger share of the $11.1 trillion in economic1149benefits from the global travel market.1150    It's time for a new strategy--a strategy to secure America's global1151travel leadership and establish the United States as the world's top1152destination. Just regaining our lost market share, which declined from115312.8 percent to 9.1 percent since 2015, would generate 127 million1154additional visitors over the next decade, resulting in $478 billion in1155additional spending with U.S. businesses, 140,000 new American jobs,1156and generate $55 billion in tax revenue.1157    But we should aim higher. And the opportunity is right on our1158doorstep.1159    Over the next 4 years, America is set to host several premier1160events--including the 2025 Ryder Cup, America's 250th birthday, the11612026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.1162    With Presidential leadership and the right policies in place, these1163events can welcome 40 million international visitors and drive $951164billion in economic activity.1165    To help seize this opportunity and regain American travel1166dominance, the U.S. Travel Association established the Commission on1167Seamless and Secure Travel. Comprised of key leaders across the private1168and public sectors, the commission spent nearly a year gathering1169evidence, studying the latest security technologies, and learning how1170progress is being made both at home and abroad.1171    The commission's report offers a guide for the Trump administration1172and Congress to fulfill President Trump's pledge to usher in a Golden1173Age of Travel. Based on the commission's work, U.S. Travel recommends1174that Congress and the Trump administration take 4 crucial steps to make1175America the top travel destination:1176                                   11177    Establish White House leadership to showcase America at premier1178events.--In the first 100 days, the Trump administration should1179establish an interagency task force, chaired by a senior White House1180official, to bring sustained leadership and focus across the Federal1181Government to take advantage of global events coming our way over the1182next 4 years. The administration should leverage Brand USA, a public-1183private partnership, to market America's destinations to the world and1184increase international visitation for these events.1185                                   21186    Deliver on President Trump's promise to efficiently and securely1187process visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.1188   Provide full-strength consular staffing for visa1189        processing.--Fully staff visa processing windows during all1190        available business hours and surge staff to remotely process1191        visa applications.1192   Extend visa validity for vetted, lawful visitors.--Extend B-1193        1/B-2 visa validity for 2 years for lawful visa holders who1194        have never been refused a visa, have previously visited the1195        United States, left the country on time, and have no1196        immigration or criminal violations.1197   Establish a National Vetting Service that builds on1198        President Trump's National Vetting Center.--Rather than relying1199        on entry-level foreign service bureaucrats to conduct visa1200        processing, seek legislation to establish a new National1201        Vetting Service (NVS) dedicated to visa processing and traveler1202        vetting. The NVS would be a professional national security1203        workforce that is fully funded through visa fees, separate from1204        the Foreign Service, and could be surged anywhere in the world1205        to efficiently handle visa processing demand.1206   Create a ``Secure Travel Partnership'' program to increase1207        countries that have strong travel security agreements with the1208        United States.--Establish a Secure Travel Partnership program1209        where countries could qualify for visa facilitation benefits by1210        meeting all security requirements of the Visa Waiver Program1211        (VWP) and keeping refusal rates below 12 percent and overstay1212        rates below 5 percent. In return, highly qualified first-time1213        B-1/B-2 visa applicants from Partnership countries could have1214        in-person interviews and biometric collection done by U.S.1215        Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival at U.S.1216        airports, rather than by appointment at U.S. consulates and1217        embassies.1218                                   31219    Create the world's most advanced and secure airport screening1220process.--Deploy state-of-the-art screening technology that strengthens1221security AND reduces wait times by allowing all travelers to carry1222water bottles and larger liquids, leave all electronics in their bags1223and keep their shoes, jackets, and belts on.1224   Make a historic investment in security technology.--1225        Immediately end the diversion of the Passenger Security Fee and1226        increase technology funding to generate $10 billion to1227        modernize the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and1228        put new identity verification, on-person screening and baggage1229        scanning technology in every U.S. airport lane within 5 years.1230                                   41231    Create strong, modern and efficient airport borders to keep America1232safe and global travel moving.1233   Provide full-strength staffing at airport customs.--Fund an1234        additional 2,000 CBP officers to fully staff U.S. airports of1235        entry. Surge CBP staffing to the National Targeting Center,1236        National Vetting Center, and Global Entry processing to1237        maximize security while facilitating record travel.1238   End hours-long customs wait times for Americans returning1239        home from abroad.--Expand CBP's Enhanced Passenger Processing1240        (EPP) and Seamless Border Entry (SBE) to the top 25 airports by1241        the end of 2026. EPP allows low-risk U.S. citizens to forgo1242        customs interviews if they pass pre-arrival vetting, have their1243        identities biometrically confirmed, and have nothing to1244        declare. SBE uses advanced biometric technology to confirm the1245        identities of Global Entry travelers on the move, without the1246        need to stop at a kiosk.1247   Strengthen protection against immigration overstays.--Invest1248        $600 million to complete CBP's biometric air exit system within1249        2 years and enhance the Traveler Verification Service (TVS)1250        that is used to identify travelers entering and exiting the1251        United States.1252    Implementing these recommendations will strengthen our economy,1253create jobs across the country, and improve our trade balance while1254ensuring America remains a secure and welcoming destination for1255international travelers. We need a new strategy to secure America's1256global travel leadership.1257    To learn how modernizing our travel systems will deliver a world-1258class experience for both domestic and international travelers, visit1259ShowcaseAmericanTravel.org.12601261    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you, Mr. Freeman.1262    Now I recognize Mr. Gruen for 5 minutes to summarize his1263opening statement.12641265 STATEMENT OF JON GRUEN, CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER,1266                      FORTEM TECHNOLOGIES12671268    Mr. Gruen. Good morning, Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member1269McIver, and honorable Members of the Transportation and1270Maritime Security Subcommittee.1271    My name is Jon Gruen, and I am the chief executive officer1272of Fortem Technologies. I'm grateful for the opportunity to1273testify today on the security of upcoming international events.1274    Fortem was founded in 2016 to develop and produce the1275technology needed to defeat drones. We have become a global1276leader in drone detection and mitigation, focused on systems1277that can operate safely in the populated areas and in the1278national air space.1279    Our technology is currently deployed by CBP at the Southern1280Border, on U.S. military bases, and at critical infrastructure1281sites worldwide.1282    Fortem also provided counter-drone solutions to the 20201283Olympic games in Tokyo, the 2022 World Cup games in Qatar, and1284the recent inauguration of President Trump here in the District1285of Columbia.1286    Over the next decade, the United States will host multiple1287major international sporting events. As we approach these1288global events, it is vital that we assess today's threat1289landscape and act now to lower the risk of incidents.1290    As you are well aware, the occurrence of drone threats has1291surged in recent years, with the Department of Defense and1292Homeland Security reporting thousands of unauthorized drone1293incidents annually. Recent domestic drone incidents, like the1294collision with the firefighting aircraft in Los Angeles and one1295that halted an NFL playoff game are warnings of what is to come1296if we don't act.1297    Another example includes the incursion that occurred over1298Joint Base Langley-Eustis in 2023, which triggered a month-long1299interagency attempt to deploy counter-drone assets to no avail.1300In this incident, standard detection and defeat systems failed,1301offering no advanced warning of incoming drones or a means to1302defeat what should have been considered a clear and present1303danger. This event highlighted a new category of threats we are1304facing: dark drones, aircraft designed to evade detection by1305not emitting RF signals.1306    To protect sensitive sites and large public gatherings,1307dark drone detection and kinetic mitigation must be the core of1308any successful counter-drone system.1309    Thankfully, we do have the technology to defeat rogue1310drones before they cause harm. Companies like mine have1311developed AI-powered sensors necessary to identify the threats,1312including dark drones, as well as autonomous interceptor drones1313capable of safely taking down the threats. Our system1314intercepts drones with an aerial net capture system and tows1315them to predetermined locations, ensuring the safety of1316bystanders and allowing for forensics on the captured drone.1317    As I mentioned, this technology has protected spectators at1318the World Cup, Olympics, and other significant events before.1319We must field these defensive solutions at scale in the1320homeland now, as time is a critical aspect in fielding an1321effective counter-drone system. Based on our experience,1322counter-drone systems must start to be deployed 12 months1323before the event, to allow time for system delivery, site1324analysis, and operational training.1325    With the 2026 World Cup just over a year away, Federal1326agencies must be given the tools and authorities they need, and1327local law enforcement must be empowered to respond to drone1328threats quickly and effectively.1329    Currently, counter-drone authorities are spread across1330multiple agencies, with delayed abilities to mitigate known1331threats. In the instance a drone is detected and determined to1332be a danger, authorized Federal personnel must be present and1333still request explicit clearance to take mitigation action.1334    The chaos that ensured when drone activity disrupted1335flights at Newark airport last year is a glaring example of our1336inability to respond to drone threats in real time. I commend1337this committee's thoughtful bipartisan work to resolve this1338challenge through H.R. 8610 last year and believe this bill1339should be passed swiftly in the new Congress. We need1340centralized, streamlined counter-drone processes now. We must1341delegate mitigation authority to State and local law1342enforcement. Their involvement is critical for faster response1343and better security at a 12-plus city event like the World Cup,1344where Federal resources will be stretched thin.1345    I thank you. I look forward to answering your questions.1346    [The prepared statement of Mr. Gruen follows:]1347                    Prepared Statement of Jon Gruen1348                             April 8, 20251349    Good morning, Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member McIver, and1350honorable Members of the Transportation and Maritime Security1351Subcommittee. My name is Jon Gruen, and I am the chief executive1352officer of Fortem Technologies. I'm grateful for the opportunity to1353testify today on the timely issue of security in upcoming international1354events in the United States.1355    Fortem was founded in 2016 with the explicit intention of1356developing and producing the technology necessary to defeat a key1357threat that we saw on the horizon: drones. Nine years later, we have1358grown to be a global leader in drone detection and kinetic mitigation1359capabilities, specializing in low-collateral effect systems that can1360operate safely in populated areas and in the National air space. This1361unique specialty has garnered attention from Government agencies and1362private stakeholders alike, and we are currently deployed at military1363bases both in the homeland and abroad, with CBP at the Southern Border,1364and with dozens of partners across the globe in critical infrastructure1365and public-event security.1366    Over the next decade, the United States will host the 2026 Men's1367World Cup, the 2028 Summer Olympics, the 2031 Women's World Cup, the13682031 Rugby World Cup, and the 2034 Winter Olympics. These are in1369addition to our regularly-held domestic sporting events that frequently1370surpass 100,000 patrons in attendance.1371    As we approach these large events in the United States, all of1372which will have a significant international presence, it is incredibly1373important to do what this committee is discussing today: analyze what1374the state of security threats will be to the public and participants at1375the time of those events, and what should be done now to lower the risk1376of a security incident.1377    I started gaining experience in securing large international events1378as the U.S. Special Operations Command lead to the inter-agency Task1379Force for the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. At the time, the largest1380deployment of U.S. inter-agency personnel ever. My recent experiences1381are based on my company's work providing air space awareness and1382counter-drone solutions to the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, the 20221383World Cup Games in Qatar, and the recent inauguration of President1384Trump right here on Capitol Hill.1385    There are numerous potential threats to large public events, but1386law enforcement and security personnel have developed capabilities to1387mitigate most of them. However, there is one threat which evolves every1388day, and has proliferated at such a fast pace, that law enforcement1389does not have the tools to mitigate it. Drones are the new weapon of1390choice for bad actors around the world, posing an escalating threat to1391security. Public venues and critical infrastructure, such as airports1392and energy sites, are equally vulnerable to what might be the greatest1393asymmetric advantage ever achieved by people intent on death and1394damage.1395    As you are well aware, the occurrence of drone threats against1396critical infrastructure has surged by over 400 percent in the past 51397years, with the Department of Defense and Homeland Security reporting1398thousands of unauthorized drone incidents annually, posing escalating1399risks to national security. The effectiveness of these drones to cause1400catastrophic damage is also growing, as displayed in real-time on the1401battlefields of Ukraine where the development time line for new drone1402technologies and tactics is 60 days.1403    Recent domestic incidents, such as a drone collision with a1404firefighting aircraft in Los Angeles and a rogue drone that shut down1405the Steelers-Ravens NFL Playoff game, will happen again at coming1406attractions if we don't act now. Even larger incidents, such as at1407Joint Base Langley-Eustis on December 6, 2023, resulted in a near-1408month-long inter-agency response to deploy counter-drone assets,1409technology and personnel, all to no avail. Months later a similar1410incident over a key critical infrastructure site took place in the1411Pacific Northwest, where law enforcement personnel observed multiple1412drones flying at consistent intervals for more than a week. In both1413incidents, traditional drone detect-and-defeat solutions did not work.1414There was no advanced warning of incoming drones and no countermeasure1415to defeat what should be considered a clear and present danger.1416    These incidents have led to the broad acceptance that traditional1417drone countermeasures are no longer sufficient to protect against what1418was once thought to be a future threat--dark drones, or drones1419specifically designed to not emit RF signatures and thereby evade1420traditional drone detection solutions. In order to adequately protect1421any sensitive site or large public gathering today, dark drone1422detection and kinetic mitigation must be the core of any successful1423counter-drone system.1424    Thankfully, we do have the technology to detect, track, and1425neutralize rogue drones before they cause harm. Companies like mine1426have developed AI-powered sensors necessary to identify the threats,1427including dark drones, as well as autonomous interceptor drones capable1428of taking down threats in real-time without collateral damage. Our1429system intercepts drones with aerial net capture, and then tows them to1430a pre-determined location, ensuring the safety of bystanders and1431allowing for forensics on the captured drone. As I mentioned before,1432this technology has protected spectators at the World Cup, Olympics,1433the Inauguration and other significant international events. We must1434field these defensive solutions at scale in the homeland now, as time1435is a critical aspect in fielding an effective counter-drone system.1436    Based on our experience, counter-drone systems must start to be1437deployed 12 months before the event. During that time, there needs to1438be analysis of site-specific layered solutions; hardware must be1439purchased, delivered, and integrated; teams identified and trained on1440this new technology; concepts of operations developed; and small1441hardware and software modifications made to maximize the effectiveness1442of those operations.1443    With the 2026 World Cup just over a year away, we must act quickly1444to enable relevant Federal agencies to procure and deploy these assets1445as fast as possible and ensure that these agencies and their local law1446enforcement partners have the authority to act quickly in response to a1447threat. In a drone attack, seconds count: giving law enforcement1448personnel on the ground the ability to do their jobs is just common1449sense.1450    Currently, the responsibility of countering the threat of drones is1451spread across multiple agencies with limited authority to counter drone1452threats in real time. In the instance a drone is detected and1453determined to be a threat, authorized Federal personnel must be present1454and still request explicit clearance in order to take mitigative1455action. These barriers prevent even well-prepared organizations, such1456as owners of stadiums or energy sites, from taking proactive action,1457and point to a larger systemic challenge that extends beyond large1458events like the World Cup. The chaos that ensued when unauthorized1459drone activity disrupted flights at Newark International Airport is a1460glaring example of our inability to detect and respond in real time.1461    Long-term resolution to the authorities' challenge has been a topic1462of debate in Congress for some time, and I am grateful for the1463thoughtful bipartisan legislation from this committee's work on H.R.14648610 last year. However, these upcoming events require centralized and1465streamlined counter-drone processes as soon as possible to ensure their1466security. In addition, there needs to be delegation of authorities to1467more State and local law enforcement, even if it is temporary1468authorization for these events. Their involvement will enable greater1469flexibility, faster responses, and better security at a 12+ city event1470like the World Cup where there may not be enough Federal personnel or1471assets to deploy. Empowering State and local law enforcement to defend1472high-risk locations from unauthorized drones will be critical to1473success.1474    We have been lucky that many recent drone incidents were not1475catastrophic, but luck is not a security strategy. The threat is real,1476but the solution is within reach. I urge Congress to provide Federal1477agencies with the resources necessary to procure capable counter-drone1478systems as soon as possible, and to make sure that Federal, State, and1479local law enforcement are granted the appropriate authorities needed to1480protect these high-visibility events. I'm grateful for the opportunity1481to testify today, and look forward to engaging with all of you on this1482topic.14831484    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you, Mr. Gruen.1485    I now recognize Dr. Kelley for 5 minutes to summarize his1486opening statement.14871488  STATEMENT OF EVERETT B. KELLEY, PH.D., NATIONAL PRESIDENT,1489       AMERICAN FEDERATION OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES (AFGE)14901491    Mr. Kelley. Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member McIver,1492Chairman Green, Ranking Member Thompson, and Members of the1493subcommittee, my name is Everett Kelley. I am the national1494president of the American Federation of Government Employees,1495AFGE. On behalf of the over 820,000 Federal and D.C. Government1496workers represented by my union, including more than 47,0001497transportation security officers, I appreciate the opportunity1498to testify today.1499    The decision by the Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi1500Noem to unilaterally rescind the 2024 collective bargaining1501agreement between AFGE and the Transportation Security1502Administration has created an unprecedented crisis for TSOs at1503a time when our Nation's aviation security system is facing1504increasing demands.1505    This decision undermines work force stability and aviation1506security as we prepare for significant international events1507like America's 250th birthday next year and the summer Olympic1508games in 2028.1509    Since 2011, AFGE has worked with TSA to establish a1510framework for genuine collective bargaining that balances1511aviation security needs with workers' rights. Our agreement has1512strengthened workplace policies while maintaining TSA's1513operational flexibilities.1514    The 2024 CBA marked a significant milestone, providing1515long-term stability and predictable working conditions for TSOs1516while supporting TSA's mission.1517    The abrupt termination of this agreement by Secretary Noem1518has dismantled years of progress. This action has left over151947,000 TSOs vulnerable to arbitrary management decisions,1520undermining morale, and creating instability within the TSA's1521work force.1522    Secretary Noem's decision to rescind our CBA has created1523immediate uncertainty for TSOs, who rely on this protection for1524predictable working conditions. Without established procedures1525for shift bidding, leave approval, or grievance resolution,1526TSOs face arbitrary decisions that undermine morale and job1527satisfaction. This instability will lead to higher turnover1528rates, a direct threat to aviation security and experienced1529officers leave their post.1530    The timing could not be worse. Major interaction in1531international events will significantly increase traveler1532volumes in the coming years, regarding a fully-staffed and1533motivated work force operating under standardized procedures.1534Workforce instability threatens screening consistencies and1535efficiency during these critical periods when heightened1536security vigilance is essential.1537    To address this crisis, Congress must take immediate1538action. And this is an ask. First, AFGE urges Congress to pass1539legislation to codify collective bargaining rights for TSOs.1540AFGE strongly supports the right--for the TSA Workforce Act,1541H.R. 2086, introduced by Ranking Member Bennie Thompson. This1542bipartisan legislation will provide permanence to TSOs' labor1543rights under title 5 of the U.S. Code, ensuring fair agreement1544procedures and Merit System Protection Board appeal rights.1545Congress needs to prioritize this legislation.1546    Second, AFGE asks Congress to restore our rescinded1547collective bargaining agreement. Congress needs to pass1548legislation mandating the reinstatement of 2024 CBA immediately1549to restore stability to the TSA work force.1550    Finally, Congress needs to utilize the oversight authority.1551Congress must investigate Secretary Noem's decisions through1552public hearings that examine its legal basis and factual1553justification. DHS officials should be required to provide1554evidence supporting the claim against AFGE while explaining how1555this actually aligns with national security priorities.1556    The decision to rescind the 2024 collective bargaining1557agreement represents an unprecedented attack on workers' rights1558that threatens aviation security at a critical time for our1559Nation. TSO performs vital functions in protecting America's1560transportation system. They deserve dignity, respect, and fair1561working conditions provided to bind the agreements negotiated1562on their behalf.1563    AFGE remains committed to fighting for TSOs' rights while1564working with Congress to find solutions that balance labor1565protections with aviation security needs.1566    So thank you for holding this hearing today. I look forward1567to answering any questions that you might have. Thank you.1568    [The prepared statement of Mr. Kelley follows:]1569                Prepared Statement of Everett B. Kelley1570                             April 8, 20251571    Chairman Gimenez, Ranking Member McIver, Chairman Green, Ranking1572Member Thompson, and Members of the Homeland Security Committee: My1573name is Everett B. Kelley and I am the national president of the1574American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), AFL-CIO. On behalf1575of the over 820,000 Federal and District of Columbia workers1576represented by our union, including over 47,000 Transportation Security1577Officers (TSOs) as of February 26, I appreciate the opportunity to1578offer testimony at today's hearing before the Subcommittee on1579Transportation and Maritime Security, ``America on the Global Stage:1580Examining Efforts to Secure and Improve the U.S. Travel System for1581Significant International Events.'' The recent unilateral rescission of1582the collective bargaining agreement between AFGE and the Transportation1583Security Administration (TSA) has created an unprecedented crisis for1584the TSO workforce at a time when our Nation's transportation security1585system faces increasing challenges. This decision not only violates the1586Administrative Procedure Act and is a clear form of retaliation in1587violation of the First Amendment, but also threatens to undermine our1588aviation security and the recovery of America's travel economy, as we1589prepare for significant international events, including America's 250th1590birthday, the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympic and1591Paralympic Games.1592                               background1593    For over 20 years, AFGE has represented TSOs at airports1594nationwide, with union membership remaining completely voluntary1595throughout this period. Following the establishment of the1596Transportation Security Administration after September 11, 2001, a1597framework for collective bargaining gradually evolved to balance the1598needs of management and the workforce. In February 2011, after careful1599consideration of TSA's mission requirements and consultation with1600stakeholders, then-Administrator John Pistole established a framework1601for ``genuine, binding collective bargaining'' for TSOs, recognizing1602that labor rights could be compatible with the agency's mission. This1603decision came after thoughtful evaluation of workforce data and1604listening to the perspectives of TSOs, Federal security directors,1605management, and union representatives to ensure that collective1606bargaining would support rather than hinder TSA's mission. This1607milestone represented a significant recognition that respecting1608workers' rights and ensuring transportation security are complementary,1609not contradictory goals.1610    In June 2011, TSOs elected AFGE as their exclusive representative,1611establishing a labor-management relationship that would endure across1612multiple administrations, both Democratic and Republican. Our first1613collective bargaining agreement, signed in November 2012, established1614new award programs for employees, improved processes for bidding on1615shifts and leave, and created new policies governing uniforms that1616balanced professional requirements with officer comfort and1617practicality. Subsequent agreements in 2016 and 2020 built upon these1618foundations, gradually expanding the scope of bargaining while1619maintaining TSA's operational flexibility. In December 2022,1620Administrator David P. Pekoske further extended bargaining rights to1621more closely align with standard Federal-sector labor relations ``to1622the same extent as permitted under Chapter 71 of Title 5,'' reflecting1623the agency's growing recognition of the value of meaningful collective1624bargaining. This evolution demonstrated that collective bargaining at1625TSA could mature and strengthen across different administrations,1626proving that labor rights and government excellence are not mutually1627exclusive.1628  the 2024 collective bargaining agreement and its abrupt termination1629    The 2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement, which became effective on1630May 24, 2024, represented the culmination of years of evolving labor1631relations at TSA and was structured with a 7-year term to provide long-1632term stability for both the workforce and the agency. This agreement1633represented significant advancements in addressing workplace concerns1634while ensuring TSA maintained the flexibility needed to fulfill its1635security mission. The contract included provisions for fair shift1636assignments, transparent leave policies, objective performance1637evaluation standards, and equitable disciplinary procedures--all1638fundamental elements of a productive and stable workplace. The1639agreement's 7-year duration reflected confidence in the maturity of the1640labor-management relationship and a commitment to stability and1641predictability in working conditions for the TSO workforce.1642Additionally, the agreement permitted limited mid-term bargaining to1643address emerging issues, creating a flexible framework that could adapt1644to changing mission needs while preserving essential worker1645protections.1646    On February 27, 2025, without warning or consultation, Secretary of1647Homeland Security Kristi Noem signed a memorandum that specifically1648targeted AFGE by name and unilaterally rescinded the 2024 collective1649bargaining agreement. The memorandum made unsupported allegations that1650AFGE was harming TSOs and declared the 9-month-old agreement non-1651binding and rescinded without any factual justification. Secretary1652Noem's directive went beyond merely terminating the contract--it1653revoked AFGE's status as the exclusive representative of TSOs,1654eliminated all collective bargaining rights and obligations, and1655stripped AFGE of all rights as the union representing TSO's.1656Approximately 1 week later, TSA informed AFGE of this decision and1657simultaneously announced it publicly, making demonstrably false claims1658about AFGE's use of official time and baselessly asserting that our1659union ``did not represent or protect'' its members' interests. This1660extraordinary action came with no identified breach of contract or1661change in circumstances that could justify such a drastic measure,1662raising serious concerns about its true motivations.1663       impact on transportation security and workforce stability1664    The rescission of the 2024 CBA has created immediate uncertainty1665for over 47,000 TSOs who relied on its protections for basic workplace1666fairness and predictability. Without established procedures for shift1667bidding, leave approval, and performance evaluation, TSOs now face1668arbitrary and unpredictable working conditions that undermine morale1669and job satisfaction at a time when their focus should be entirely on1670security operations. The elimination of negotiated grievance procedures1671has removed an essential mechanism for resolving workplace disputes1672fairly and efficiently, leaving TSOs vulnerable to potentially1673arbitrary management decisions without recourse. These conditions will1674create unnecessary stress and anxiety among the workforce, leading to1675decreased job satisfaction and ultimately higher turnover rates among1676the TSO workforce. There is currently a very high level of anxiety1677within the TSO workforce and many TSOs are fearful they will be1678targeted for being an AFGE member or an officer for their local. The1679potential loss of experienced TSOs represents a direct threat to our1680aviation security capabilities, as these officers possess invaluable1681institutional knowledge and screening expertise that cannot be quickly1682replaced by new TSOs or machines.1683          consequences for aviation security and global events1684    The timing of this disruption could not be more concerning as the1685United States prepares to host in several major international events in1686the coming years, including the 2025 Ryder Cup, America's 250th1687birthday, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Summer Olympic and1688Paralympic Games, that will significantly increase demands on our1689aviation security system.1690    The anticipated surge in international travelers will require a1691fully staffed, experienced, and motivated TSO workforce operating at1692maximum effectiveness to ensure security while managing increased1693passenger volumes. Workforce instability resulting from the CBA1694rescission threatens to compromise screening consistency and1695thoroughness during this critical period when heightened security1696vigilance is essential for both safety and America's global reputation1697as a premier destination for international travelers. The elimination1698of established work rules introduces unnecessary operational1699variability at a time when standardization and predictability are most1700needed to handle increased passenger volumes efficiently while1701maintaining rigorous security standards. This disruption to labor1702relations and wanton display of disrespect to the workforce at TSA1703represents a self-inflicted wound to our Nation's transportation1704security readiness at a time when we can least afford it.1705                recommendations for congressional action1706    Congress must consider legislative action to clarify and strengthen1707the collective bargaining rights of Transportation Security Officers to1708prevent similar unilateral actions in the future. AFGE greatly1709appreciates Ranking Member Thompson and Ranking Member McIver for1710reintroducing the Rights for the TSA Workforce Act (H.R. 2086) on March171111. This legislation, when enacted into law, will provide permanence1712and predictability of the statutory rights and protections of title 51713of the U.S. Code, the fairness of negotiated grievance and arbitration1714provisions, and U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board appeal rights that1715are currently lacking in the work lives of the TSO workforce. The1716Rights for the TSA Workforce Act is bipartisan legislation, supported1717by both Republicans and Democrats. AFGE urges the Homeland Security1718Committee to consider this legislation as soon as possible.1719    In addition, Congress needs to pass legislation that would1720reinstate TSOs' collective bargaining agreement immediately. Ranking1721Member Thompson and Ranking Member McIver offered legislation as an1722amendment to the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act1723(H.R. 1968) last month that would prevent funds being made available1724unless the Department of Homeland Security rescinds the February 271725publication ``Supporting the TSA Workforce by Removing a Union That1726Harms Transportation Security Officers'' and replace it with the 20241727collective bargaining agreement that TSA made with AFGE. AFGE thanks1728Ranking Member Thompson and Ranking Member McIver for their leadership1729and urges Congress to take up this legislation immediately to reinstate1730TSOs' collective bargaining agreement and make clear that Congress1731stands with America's public service officers and ensuring there are no1732negative impacts to aviation security.1733    Furthermore, AFGE urges Congress to immediately exercise its1734oversight authority to examine the legal basis and factual1735justifications for Secretary Noem's decision to rescind the 2024 CBA.1736This investigation should include public hearings where TSA and DHS1737officials explain the timing, rationale, and legal authority for this1738unprecedented action against a binding contract. The oversight process1739should also examine the specific allegations made against AFGE in1740Secretary Noem's memorandum and the public announcement, requiring DHS1741to provide evidence to support claims that our union was harming TSOs1742or failing to represent their interests. These oversight activities are1743essential to ensure transparency and accountability for a decision1744impacting both aviation security and the rights of over 47,000 Federal1745employees.1746                               conclusion1747    The rescission of the 2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement1748represents an unprecedented attack on the rights of Transportation1749Security Officers and threatens to undermine aviation security at a1750critical time for our Nation. The men and women who serve as TSOs1751perform vital functions in protecting our Nation's transportation1752systems from threats and deserve to be treated with dignity and1753respect, including by honoring binding workplace agreements negotiated1754on their behalf. AFGE remains committed to fighting for the rights of1755TSOs through all available legal and legislative means and stands ready1756to work with Congress to find solutions that respect workers' rights1757while ensuring effective transportation security. As Congress examines1758efforts to secure and improve the U.S. travel system and prepare for1759significant international events, addressing this urgent issue needs to1760be a priority. The stability and effectiveness of our Nation's1761transportation security system depend on a motivated, experienced1762workforce operating under fair and predictable conditions of1763employment--conditions that were provided by the very agreement that1764has been unlawfully rescinded.1765    Thank you for holding today's hearing and for the opportunity to1766speak on behalf of the TSO workforce represented by AFGE. I am prepared1767to answer any questions the subcommittee may have.17681769    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you, Dr. Kelley.1770    Members will be recognized in the order of seniority for1771their 5 minutes of questions.1772    I recognize myself for 5 minutes of questioning.1773    Mr. Freeman, have we ever reached--I know that we had the1774pandemic, and then what was the highest year that we had1775international passengers in the United States?1776    Mr. Freeman. The highest year for international travel was17772018. We have gone down or remained below that every year1778since. We, at the end of last year, were only at about 901779percent of where we were prepandemic. So the United States1780continues to struggle to welcome international visitors in the1781numbers we previously did.1782    Coming into this year, visa concerns, Customs concerns were1783top reasons for that. We can't ignore the strength of the1784dollar. We can't ignore our economy versus others coming into1785this year, but the issues that were within our control were1786500-day-plus wait times to get an interview for a visa, multi-1787hour waits to get through Customs. Both of those were big1788deterrents for foreign travelers.1789    Mr. Gimenez. Was that a reality before the Trump1790administration, or has that just happened in the last 60 days?1791    Mr. Freeman. We've ebbed and flowed in terms of where we1792are on visa wait times. The lowest we have ever been was during1793the Obama administration where consuls around the world1794processed visas at 2 weeks or less. That has ebbed and flowed1795ever since. There were successes.1796    During the Trump turn, there were more struggles coming out1797of the pandemic. We have really struggled to get the consular1798officials we need around the world and to get these visa wait1799times down.1800    Mr. Gimenez. How do we end up with wait times of 2 weeks to1801500 days? How did that happen?1802    Mr. Freeman. When you look at what happened post-pandemic1803or in the early days of the pandemic, all these Foreign Service1804officers came back home. They were slow to get back out to1805their consuls around the world. Processing visas is also the1806lowest rung on the totem pole of jobs within the Foreign1807Service officer community. It is not the most desired job out1808there. That is why we recommended an alternative approach to1809doing this. If we want to get all wait times down to 30 days or1810less, which is something the United States of America should1811aspire to do, we need to take a new look at how we do this.1812These fees that foreign travelers pay can cover the cost of1813creating a new service that processes travelers. There is no1814need for Foreign Service officers to do this. There is a better1815way to do it.1816    We think we could also use kind-of emergency SWAT teams.1817Whenever wait times get high, we could send these officers or1818these officials into jurisdictions where they get high. The1819United States could be the most secure Nation in the world and1820also the most efficient when it comes to processing travelers.1821    Mr. Gimenez. But we lack the technology, and we lack the1822manpower, and we have lacked the manpower and technology for1823some time in order to do that--also probably policy, right?1824    Mr. Freeman. I'm sorry?1825    Mr. Gimenez. Policy.1826    Mr. Freeman. Manpower has been an enormous issue.1827Technology is an even bigger issue. I think the will to get it1828done is the largest issue, right? Where is the goal? We don't1829have a goal when it comes to processing visas. At the end of1830the Biden administration, they established the goal of 90 days1831or less. If we achieved that goal, we would have still been1832last in the world when it comes to processing visas.1833    Mr. Gimenez. This was at the end of the Biden1834administration?1835    Mr. Freeman. The--November of the Biden administration. We1836need to have greater aspirations when it comes to how we1837welcome travelers into this country. They want to do nothing1838more than come here, spend their money, and go home and tell1839their family and friends what a great time they had.1840    Mr. Gimenez. So the Biden administration was, in close to 41841years, basically right at the end of his administration he1842decided, well, maybe we have a 90-day period versus the 500-day1843period that some these visas have taken.1844    Mr. Freeman. There is no doubt that the wait times peaked1845coming out of COVID. There were steps taken. It was a little1846too little too late. We are hopeful we can find bipartisan1847support to be more efficient in the future.1848    Mr. Gimenez. By the way, I agree that the passenger1849security fee, that has been diverted for a number of years,1850needs to be fully invested in TSA. I don't believe--you're1851going to be paying for something, you are saying, ``I am paying1852a passenger security fee, it should be for passenger1853security.'' That's a novel concept I think here in the Federal1854Government. I think that that can be said for administrations1855on both sides of the aisle.1856    So I would hope--I know that one of my colleagues, Nick1857LaLota, had a bill to make sure that the passenger fee went to1858technology, et cetera, that we need at TSA. I certainly support1859that. I think we need to do more of that. The fact that we're1860not going to be upgrading our system to the middle of 2040's,1861that's totally unacceptable.1862    Mr. Gruen, in terms of drones--and I only have about 301863seconds left--I found it interesting that you said that, even1864if you put your technology, say, at all these stadiums, et1865cetera, to protect, that it would take a Federal individual to1866say, ``Go ahead and knock that drone out of the sky,'' that the1867local law enforcement could not make that call on its own or1868protect its own citizens.1869    Mr. Gruen. Correct. The local law enforcement, State and1870local, do not have the current authorities. Even Federal had it1871only authorized in temporary durations and only certain1872agencies.1873    Mr. Gimenez. Fair enough. OK. Maybe I'll come back to a1874second round.1875    With that, I yield back. Now I recognize the Ranking1876Member, the gentlewoman from New Jersey.1877    Mrs. McIver. Thank you so much, Mr. Chairman.1878    For many years, we all know that TSA experienced very high1879attrition rates among its front-line officers. AFGE worked for1880many years to advocate for better pay for TSOs to put them on1881the same pay scale as other Federal workers and help address1882attrition.1883    In 2023, when pay raises for TSOs finally went into effect,1884TSA's attrition rate dropped nearly half.1885    President Kelley, with the Trump administration now trying1886to bust TSOs union, do you expect attrition rates to rise1887again? How would higher attrition rates affect the security of1888commercial travel, as well as wait times at checkpoints?1889    Mr. Kelley. Thank you for the question. I certainly think1890that it will affect attrition rates because, as we all know,1891that attrition rate went down more than half because there was1892a CBA, because there was adequate pay, because there was some1893rights for these employees on the job. They felt very secure.1894The morale was up. But now that they don't have a CBA, it was1895certainly--I expect the attrition rate to go back to where it1896was or maybe even lower, because they don't have any1897protection. They don't have any--morale seems to be going down.1898As I travel the airports and talk to various wards, you know,1899we all see that. So I think that you will see it go completely1900south.1901    I think that wait time will be the result of this attrition1902rate going back because you're talking about now employee1903burnout, you know, and all these types of things that's going1904to happen that's going to affect wait time.1905    Mrs. McIver. Thank you.1906    Mr. Freeman, earlier this year, the press reported on a1907document listing options House Republicans are considering1908including in their reconciliation bill. The document included1909proposals for increasing the passenger security fee passengers1910pay on each airline ticket and extending the diversion of fee1911collections away from TSA's budget to help fund tax cuts. What1912is the U.S. Travel Association's position on extending fee1913diversions away from TSA's budget?1914    Mr. Freeman. TSA plays a critical role in the travel1915process. We value our partnership with TSA. We believe that TSA1916needs to better balance its funding between technology and1917staffing. To do that, it needs to maintain all of the resources1918that it achieves through the transportation security fee. As1919the Chairman said, none of that money should be diverted. It is1920a violation of every traveler that is out there who is1921expecting the contributions they are making when they buy that1922airline ticket to be supportive of the travel process. How we1923do that through both technology and staffing is a critical1924question.1925    Mrs. McIver. Thank you for that.1926    In my opening statement, I talked about the decrease in1927visitation from Canadians. You talked a little bit about just1928the decrease and the differences in between travel currently1929right now. How will these reductions in Canadian visitors to1930the United States impact the travel industry and economy in1931your opinion?1932    Mr. Freeman. If indeed we have a decline in Canadian1933visitation, it will be significant in terms of the effects on1934our economy. A 10 percent decline in Canadian travelers would1935cost the market about $2 billion in spending. Canada is1936critical to the United States. It's critical that we send the1937message that we want Canadian visitors to come.1938    We've seen tensions in the past between nations. That1939doesn't need to become a part of the travel process. We'd like1940to see that clear message right now that Canadians, Europeans,1941all travelers are encouraged to come to the United States. That1942message could be sent more loudly right now.1943    Mrs. McIver. Thank you, Mr. Freeman.1944    With that, I yield back.1945    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you.1946    I now recognize the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Crane.1947    Mr. Crane. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.1948    This is a very important hearing today talking about travel1949into the United States and some of the big events that we have1950coming up, like the Olympics and the World Cup.1951    Mr. Freeman, I want to start with you. According to the1952U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, TSA has either halted1953data collection or has over-classified information on1954prohibited items detected and seized by TSA since 2008. My1955concern is that TSA purposely hasn't collected data or is over1956classifying data to hide embarrassing statistics that show that1957they routinely fail what the industry calls covert tests. These1958tests are an event where an undercover operative from the1959agency tests security by attempting to smuggle prohibited items1960through TSA.1961    In 2015, DHS OIG John Roth issued a scathing report1962highlighting, under the Obama administration, the OIG found1963that, 96 percent of instances TSA officers used advanced1964imaging technology, or AIT, at 8 airports failed to detect1965hidden threat items. AIT is still in use today at U.S. airports1966by TSA.1967    The agency doesn't have any data to suggest that these1968figures from 2025 have been improved in 2025. I am currently1969working with the Chairman on drafting a bill that would require1970TSA to submit the results of all covert testing and/or red-1971teaming testing to the Committee on Homeland Security, and I1972hope this bill can be bipartisan.1973    My question, sir, and please answer briefly, with TSA's1974covert test failures coupled with the fact that the agency1975hasn't collected or submitted data on failed covert testing in1976recent years, how can Congress ensure that TSA is capable of1977handling incoming travelers from around the world for upcoming1978events like America's 250th birthday, the 2026 FIFA World Cup,1979and the 2028 summer Olympics?1980    Mr. Freeman. Thank you, Congressman. TSA's success is1981critical to all travelers. Travelers need confidence in their1982safety, in their security, or else they are simply not going to1983travel. So we share your concern with anything that would1984suggest that the process is anything but as safe and secure as1985it could be.1986    TSA's accountability is to you and to Congress. It is to1987the traveling public. So we support your efforts to find ways1988to ensure that the technology and the staffing levels are1989working in the ways that they need to work.1990    I will point out that, in recent years, while staffing has1991increased, spending on staffing has increased, spending on1992technology has decreased. The technology that is so desperately1993needed in airports is not slated to get into the airports until1994the 2040's. We need to be more urgent about providing the best1995technology and as quickly as we can to TSA to ensure the safety1996and security of the traveling public.1997    Mr. Crane. Were you aware of that statistic that I read you1998to that, under the Obama administration, OIG found that, in 961999percent, the TSA officers using advanced image technology2000failed their tests when employees from the TSA tried to smuggle2001weapons, bombs, knives, guns, et cetera through their security2002checkpoints?2003    Mr. Freeman. I was not aware of that specific statistic.2004    Mr. Crane. What do you think about that, sir?2005    Mr. Freeman. It sounds like every day we have work to do.2006We have work to do to get better. We have got to make sure we2007have got the right training; we have got the right technology;2008we have got the right people in place.2009    Security, safety, is fundamental to people traveling. If2010people don't have that confidence, we will see a decline in2011travel. It is something that is of the upmost importance, and2012you certainly have our support.2013    Mr. Crane. What about you, Mr. Gruen? Were you aware of2014that?2015    Mr. Gruen. I was not aware of that statistic.2016    Mr. Crane. What do you think about the fact that they are2017no longer reporting those numbers?2018    Mr. Gruen. Again, oversight and requiring an agency to do2019their job is essential to good governance.2020    Mr. Crane. OK.2021    Mr. Freeman, during the 2024 Fourth Annual Future of Travel2022Mobility Conference, you mentioned the need to grasp the2023opportunity right in front us. We're talking about a decade of2024sporting events that will make the United States the most2025sought-after destination; modernizing our TSA and travel2026processing procedures are included.2027    My question is--please answer briefly--how should TSA and2028Congress look at the use of AI for passenger processing to scan2029faces and directly cross-reference international travelers with2030criminal databases?2031    Mr. Freeman. It was at that same conference that I2032interviewed former TSA Administrator Pekoske, who demonstrated2033tremendous leadership during his time within TSA and2034partnership with the private sector. I think, based on my2035experience with Administrator Pekoske, TSA was going down the2036right road in terms of what it looks at in AI. We see enormous2037potential. The simple truth is that AI can detect things that2038the human eye will miss. We see enormous potential in2039technology.2040    Mr. Crane. Thank you. I yield back.2041    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you. I now recognize the Ranking Member2042of the committee, the gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Thompson.2043    Mr. Thompson. Thank you so much. I think it's interesting2044to respond that Trump had nominated Mr. Pekoske to serve as the2045TSA administrator, and he was allowed a second term, but in the2046midst of it, he was fired. I think that is unfortunate. He had2047done a good job. I think he deserved a better departure ramp2048than what he received. Because, from my vantage point, both2049Democrats and Republicans saw his vision for moving the agency2050forward.2051    The other thing I'd like to say is that TSA and its workers2052and technology have managed a successful screening effort so2053that there's been nothing successful up to this point. That2054doesn't mean things hadn't gotten through; it just hasn't been2055successful. You can call it luck or whatever.2056    But we also believe that technology is a force multiplier2057for security in all of this. There are only so many men and2058women we can put in airports and do what we do other than that2059technology can't do a better job.2060    It's unfortunate that we've had several opportunities to2061invest in more technology. We've not had the kind of bipartisan2062support to finance that technology, but we have to do it. I2063look forward to doing that.2064    One of the things we are talking about the different events2065here to this country and in the not-too-distant future.2066    So, Mr. Freeman, my concern is, is you or your organization2067aware of what the administration is doing in its screening2068protocols that are creating this discomfort? Have you seen2069anything in writing on those protocols or anything?2070    Mr. Freeman. We have had discussions with Customs and2071Border Protection to understand what policies are in place;2072what, if any, policies have changed? My understanding is that2073policies have not changed, but media coverage has certainly2074increased. We are aware of that. We are aware of the concern2075that travelers have. We are concerned about anything that would2076discourage travelers from wanting to visit the United States.2077    So, just like with Canada, it is clear that we have work to2078do to get the message out that we seek these travelers. We want2079them bringing their spending here. We would be concerned about2080anything that would drive them to take their spending somewhere2081else.2082    Mr. Thompson. So, with that lack of clarity at this point,2083it is having an adverse impact on people coming to the United2084States.2085    Mr. Freeman. There is significant anecdotal evidence. I2086think we need to see the data. We are still waiting on the data2087from the Department of Commerce to better understand what is2088happening. But, again, we are on our toes. We see the concern2089that is out there. That leaves us obviously communicating to2090the administration and various agencies the need to provide2091travelers with the confidence that they desire.2092    Mr. Thompson. Thank you.2093    President Kelley, can you just describe for the committee2094the benefits of having a Federalized work force?2095    Mr. Kelley. There are so many really when you think about2096it. No. 1, they have a CBA, and CBA was negotiated by2097Administrator Pekoske, who was appointed by President Trump. He2098negotiated CBA that would bring about some stability inside of2099the work force. Not only that, you know, you are free of any2100form of striking because, if you had a private contractor, you2101know, they can--you and I can go on strike any day. The Federal2102system cannot strike. Do not talk about going on strike. You2103talk about morale. We've already shown that attrition rate went2104down about 50 percent, you know? We will continue to see2105attrition rates go down when you have a unionized Federal work2106force. You have flexibility.2107    That's the thing that I like about the contract; it allows2108so much flexibility for the management to do what they need to2109do in the event of a crisis. So it is insurmountable the2110benefits that would be for this TSA.2111    Mr. Thompson. Thank you very much.2112    TSA, we created after 9/11 because the current protocol for2113screening virtually didn't exist before that. So it's the new2114kid on the block. We've been successful in not having, as I2115indicated, a successful person getting on a plane and causing2116that kind of crisis, but it's a work in progress. I mean, with2117technology still growing, we still have to continue to beat as2118best we can--our adversaries are constantly trying to figure2119out how they can beat the system. In reality, it's technology2120that's going to catch them. So I look forward to continuing2121this discussion.2122    I yield back, Mr. Chair.2123    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you, we're going to go through a second2124round of questioning. I yield myself 5 minutes for questioning.2125    Mr. Freeman, you talked about the visa process and how we2126can accelerate that. Could you be a little more specific2127exactly what you're talking about in order to accelerate the2128visa process, take it down from 300 days to something a little2129bit more reasonable?2130    Mr. Freeman. Yes, there are multiple consuls around the2131world right now. Colombia is the best example of where wait2132times exceed 500 days to get an interview for a visa. We have2133had similar wait times in India. In years past, we had wait2134times like that in Brazil, where they have been successful2135recently in bringing those wait times down. I think there are2136several elements to this: No. 1, we simply have to establish a2137goal as a country. How well do we want to process visas2138regardless of what the demand may be? Once we establish that2139goal, what's the technique for getting there?2140    Our proposal is to move things out of Foreign Service2141officers, to create a new national vetting service where people2142apply for that job; they sign up for that job. That's what they2143want to do. Their job is to process visas. Those employees are2144paid for by the fees that travelers pay when they apply for2145visas. There is no additional cost to U.S. taxpayers. The key,2146though, is having individuals who actually desire to be in this2147role; it is what they signed up for. You don't get that today.2148You don't get that because you've got--again, people on the2149lowest rung of the totem pole. This is a job they don't want to2150do. In many parts around the world, they are only doing one2151shift a day. They work from, say, 9 to 3, and the consulate2152closes. We have also got to get more creative in those2153situations. There are countries where we only have 4 or 52154consulates for countries as big as the United States. How do we2155get more creative in terms of how we then process those visas?2156Where does video conferencing come in? We have all learned the2157power and the limitations of video conferencing. How can that2158play a role when it comes to processing visas?2159    Finally, when we look at the validity period of visas,2160visas that are good for 6 months or 1 year, is it possible to2161make those visas good for 2 years? When we have travelers who2162have come here, abided by our rules, left on time, can we2163allow, when their visa expires, can we allow rapid2164recertification of that visa?2165    There are a number of things that we could follow through2166if we simply have the will to do it. We establish a goal, and I2167think this is a bipartisan challenge we've confronted. We just2168simply haven't had that zeal within the State Department or the2169leadership on Capitol Hill or in the White House to demand that2170from the State Department.2171    Mr. Gimenez. If we did that, would you see an increase in2172travel?2173    Mr. Freeman. Visas, from the 45 percent of our travelers2174who are required to get a visa, visa access is a bigger concern2175than the cost of travel. I think that tells us everything we2176need to know. It is not the cost of coming to the United2177States; it is the obstacle to getting the visa that is the2178biggest deterrent.2179    Mr. Gimenez. Fair enough. Now, in terms of technology--and2180Representative Crane, you know, brought up a very good2181statistic. It seems to me that technology has improved in the2182last 10 years. It has to, right, especially with the advent of2183artificial intelligence. Is there technology now that will2184self-identify threats and give cues to the TSA individual on2185the screen and say, ``Hey, you need to look at this, this, this2186and that,'' that will help reduce that 96 percent? Is that2187technology available now?2188    Mr. Freeman. There is significant technology available now2189that we're not using. Now, when you look at elements of the TSA2190screening process, there is the identify verification; there is2191the person screening; there is the baggage screening. I think2192we've done very well on the identity verification as we have2193moved to biometrics. I think we have a lot of work to do when2194it comes to the baggage and the on-person screening of2195individuals; that's where we have the greatest room for growth.2196    Mr. Gimenez. Do you have an estimate of how much that would2197cost?2198    Mr. Freeman. I believe we have looked at a figure in the2199neighborhood of--I'm going to use the wrong figure, so I don't2200want to mention it. We do have that and are happy to give it to2201the committee.2202    Mr. Gimenez. OK. So, if we stopped diverting the money, how2203fast could we implement these new technologies--instead of22042040, which I think is a little bit too far out, 20 years from2205now, OK? By then, we'll have something else, OK? So we need to2206get the technology right. It has to be modular so that, as new2207technologies come and it gets more and more--gets better, that2208we need to be able to put that in as quickly as we can, not2209wait 20 years for that technology to be put in so that, 202210years hence, there's something else, OK? So how much do you2211think we are going to need?2212    Mr. Freeman. We believe it's reasonable that all of these2213reforms could take place within the next 5 years. This is not2214something we need to look at decades out. Within the next 52215years, we can give every American traveler the confidence that2216they can keep their water in their bottle, their belt on their2217pants, their laptop in their bags.2218    Mr. Gimenez. Fair enough.2219    I yield back, and I recognize the gentlelady from New2220Jersey.2221    Mrs. McIver. Thank you, Chairman. I just have one follow-up2222question, and it's for Mr. Freeman.2223    You, during your opening statement, even just now, you2224talked about the United States and how, you know, if we want to2225be a global leader in travel, we need to do, you know, X, Y,2226and Z.2227    Do you currently consider the United States at the top of2228the list as a leader in global travel?2229    Mr. Freeman. The United States is the world's most desired2230nation to visit. Around the world, this is where travelers want2231to come.2232    We commissioned a report through Euromonitor about 182233months ago to rank countries based on their travel2234facilitation, based on their infrastructure, based on their2235national leadership. The United States finished 17th out of 182236countries. Only China finished behind the United States.2237    You are seeing greater coordination, greater spending,2238greater zeal in countries like Saudi and other parts of the2239world that recognize just how important travel is to building2240their economy, and they also recognize that travel doesn't2241happen by accident. It takes a heck of a lot of coordination.2242It takes a heck of a lot of planning to make these things2243happen.2244    Every one of us in this room today are travelers. We all2245know the hassles with the process. We all know the2246inefficiencies. We all go through this and look at various2247points and say, ``There's got to be a better way to do this.''2248The answer is there is. Do we have any desire to work together2249to implement those better ways because what we are dealing with2250today, whether at TSA, at Customs, is not sustainable, and it's2251not something we should be tolerating.2252    Mrs. McIver. When was this report done?2253    Mr. Freeman. This report was done in--came out early 2024.2254We're happy to get you a copy of that.2255    Mrs. McIver. Yes. I would love a copy of that.2256    I just want to thank each of the witnesses for your2257testimony today and for coming to share with us. I know that2258this committee hearing is supposed to be about what we are--you2259know, examining ourselves on a global level to prepare for2260these big events, but there's just lots going on right now that2261I think we really need to address before we can talk about like2262being really prepared, being really, really prepared for all of2263the big events that we have coming up.2264    So thank you so much for all of the information that you2265provided today.2266    With that, I yield back, Mr. Chairman.2267    Mr. Gimenez. I want to thank the Ranking Member.2268    Now I recognize the gentlelady from South Carolina, Mrs.2269Biggs.2270    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2271    Thank you to the witnesses for being here today.2272    As the United States gears up to welcome the world for the22732026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic Games, our national2274travel infrastructure stands at a crucial juncture demanding2275comprehensive readiness.2276    The influx of international visitors for these events will2277place unprecedented demands on our transportation networks and2278border security.2279    The recent Executive Order signed by President Trump2280creating the World Cup task force signifies a critical2281recognition of the imperative for seamless inner-agency2282collaboration.2283    This dedicated task force will be instrumental in2284strategically preparing our ports of entry, modernizing airport2285facilities and operations, and fortifying supporting systems,2286such as Customs and Border Protection, security protocols, and2287transportation logistics.2288    So, to Mr. Freeman, how should the World Cup task force2289prioritize its efforts to address operational challenges at our2290airports and our ports of entry?2291    Mr. Freeman. Thank you for the question, Congresswoman. I2292think it's critical, as the World Cup task force gets up and2293running, that, first, we acknowledge we're already behind the 82294ball. The World Cup starts in about 15 months. Other countries2295are already planning, you know, for the 2029 World Cup--I'm2296sorry. The 2030 World Cup. That planning is already ahead of2297where we are. So we've got to acknowledge we're already behind2298the 8 ball.2299    I have all the faith in the world in the local destinations2300that are hosting the World Cup. They have been coordinating.2301They're going to do great--a great job.2302    The question really becomes in terms of getting people to2303the games, moving about the United States, and moving into the2304United States. I think, for the domestic traveler, we're going2305to see concerns when it comes to moving people through the2306airports. The demand that we're going to see is basically a2307Thanksgiving every day for about the 45 days of the World Cup.2308We all know what it's like traveling on the Wednesday before2309Thanksgiving; that's what we can expect. It begs the question,2310what are the things we can do to be more efficient during that2311period? This task force is critical about aligning the2312Department of Homeland Security, the Department of2313Transportation, and other relevant agencies to ensure we can2314meet that demand.2315    For the foreign travelers coming in, the truth is we're2316already too late for some of them. I mentioned the wait times2317for Colombians to get a visa. If they don't have their visa now2318for the World Cup in 2026, their window is closed. That's shame2319on us. Right. That's opportunity missed for the United States.2320    Then we've got to identify, what are the other markets2321where that window is already closing, and how do we process2322visas quickly in those markets so we can help those travelers2323get here?2324    When we know they're coming, Customs will be the final area2325where this task force has to work closely with DHS, with other2326elements of the Government to ensure that we don't have 2-, 3-,23274-hour wait times to get through Miami, to get through LAX, to2328get through JFK. That is a tremendous concern of ours.2329    There is nothing more predictable than when a plane is2330going to land, how many people are on it, and who those people2331are. So there's no excuse to not be staffed appropriately to2332move these travelers through, and that's where the task force2333needs to be focused.2334    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you so much for your insight.2335    My second question, Mr. Gruen, with major international2336events acting as high-profile targets for bad actors, how do2337you think the task force should integrate threat intelligence,2338interagency coordination, and emerging technologies, like2339counter-UAS and AI-enabled surveillance into the strategic2340planning?2341    Mr. Gruen. Thank you, Congresswoman.2342    Your second point, technology needs to be procured and2343deployed now. So we recommend 12 months out from events to2344really get the technology on the ground, get the personnel2345trained, and run through different scenarios to mitigate2346threats.2347    So we believe the task force needs to do that aspect. Part2348of that is also going to be authorities, to enable local and2349State law enforcement to have the authorities to mitigate large2350threats, such as drones, when they're on the ground.2351    So, again, prioritizing that--we are behind the power curve2352on this. We need the task force to prioritize the procurement2353and deployment of technologies and the training of personnel so2354that we have adequate protection.2355    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you so much.2356    My time has expired. So I yield back.2357    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you.2358    I now recognize the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Crane, for2359his second round of questioning.2360    Mr. Crane. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2361    Mr. Gruen, I find your testimony and experience very2362interesting and important to this panel today. You're a former2363Navy SEAL; is that correct?2364    Mr. Gruen. Yes, Congressman.2365    Mr. Crane. So you have a lot of background in2366unconventional warfare?2367    Mr. Gruen. I do.2368    Mr. Crane. Now you're currently working in the counter-2369drone space?2370    Mr. Gruen. Correct.2371    Mr. Crane. Have you spent any time overseas in Ukraine?2372    Mr. Gruen. Yes.2373    Mr. Crane. Do you feel that Americans and our agencies2374understand the gravity of what's happening overseas and how2375it's transforming modern warfare?2376    Mr. Gruen. Not at a scale that's necessary. There certainly2377are pockets of individuals who are aware of the threat and are2378working diligently to address it. But, as a whole Nation,2379absolutely not.2380    Mr. Crane. Do you believe that the United States is2381prepared to protect its citizens and infrastructure from drone2382attacks in some of these major events that we're talking about2383coming up in the United States?2384    Mr. Gruen. Not currently.2385    Mr. Crane. Give us an idea of what that could look like,2386sir.2387    Mr. Gruen. There's--the drone threat is so wide-ranging2388that it is hard to sometimes grasp because you have kind-of the2389obvious situation of a stadium where you may have DJI-type2390drones come into the stadium, either drop powders or be2391explosive in themselves, and do actual physical damage to the2392attendees.2393    You also have a lot of other types of operational2394scenarios. Like airports, with all these folks that are trying2395to arrive, if you have a drone that goes and parks itself on a2396runway, the entire operation is going to shut down. It doesn't2397even have to explode; it can just sit there. You have already2398disrupted air travel to a level that we have not seen, or we're2399not prepared for.2400    Mr. Crane. Right. It's a lot easier to get some type of2401explosive into a stadium when a drone doesn't have to go2402through some magnetometer; is that correct?2403    Mr. Gruen. Absolutely.2404    Mr. Crane. It's really not that expensive, either, for our2405enemies to use drone warfare to attack us, is it?2406    Mr. Gruen. Absolutely not.2407    Mr. Crane. Sir, you said, I believe, in your testimony,2408that your company has been tasked to do counter-drone2409operations around key U.S. sites. Can you expound on that a2410little bit?2411    Mr. Gruen. Yes. We are working with the Department of2412Defense to do some initial base deployments, so both OCONUS and2413CONUS.2414    In particular, in response to the New York and New Jersey2415drone threats at the end of last year, we're at Picatinny2416Arsenal now with an Army program of record, but we've also2417deployed to Stewart Air National Guard Base with a coalition of2418industry partners under NORTHCOM and all to, you know, yield2419the latest capabilities to really get both at the detection,2420identification aspect, and then have on-hand mitigation2421capability, when authorized.2422    Mr. Crane. When you guys are doing these operations, are we2423talking about lone-wolf bad actors? Are we talking about2424nation-states that you guys are trying to prevent from flying2425over these sites?2426    Mr. Gruen. The scary part about this, Congressman, is we2427don't have good fidelity on that information. We know that2428there are drones of various sizes, so ones that cannot be2429easily procured off of an Amazon or an Alibaba. You have larger2430drones, and you have drones, multiple drones at a time. So the2431fact that we don't know who is operating these drones is the2432real problem.2433    Mr. Crane. Are drones being used right now within the2434United States to conduct espionage?2435    Mr. Gruen. Absolutely.2436    Mr. Crane. Absolutely. Can you expound on that any more?2437    Mr. Gruen. There are briefings from the Government2438themselves at different classification levels, but we know that2439there are other nation-states or proxies that are operating2440near our borders and even, particularly in the homeland,2441different sites.2442    Mr. Crane. Most people probably aren't aware that U.S.2443Capitol Police are currently using traffic regulation, section244416.2.90, model rockets and boats, to mitigate drone threats on2445Capitol Grounds. Congress must do its part to properly equip2446Capitol Police for that reason.2447    On National Police Week, I plan to introduce the U.S.2448Capitol Police Empowerment Act of 2025 to authorize the U.S.2449Capitol Police to mitigate drone threats on the Capitol2450complex. The bill was drafted with input from the House Admin,2451Judiciary, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Homeland2452Security Committees. I'm hoping that everybody will support2453this bill, as it should be bipartisan.2454    I do have a video that I would like to play of some of the2455drone capabilities from your company, Mr. Gruen.2456    [Video shown.]2457    Mr. Crane. Now, Mr. Gruen, are we watching in real time2458your company's drones being able to shoot out nets and capture2459enemy drones?2460    Mr. Gruen. Correct, Congressman.2461    Mr. Crane. Why is that so important, sir?2462    Mr. Gruen. We're called the low-collateral effect2463interceptor inside Government agencies because the way--by2464catching with a net, we either keep it under a tether and drop2465it somewhere that's been rendered safe where law enforcement2466can look at the drone, get forensics, etc. So it's the2467collateral damage aspect.2468    You're also not infringing on any publicly identifiable2469information. It's not hacking a signal. It's not getting2470personnel--personal information off of anything. So the2471combination of that, the lack of PII and the low collateral, is2472what makes it so impactful.2473    Mr. Crane. Mr. Chairman, I know my time has expired, but I2474would like to enter into the record 5 separate articles.2475    Mr. Gimenez. Without objection, so ordered.2476    Mr. Crane. I've got, No. 1, U.S. Bureau of Transportation2477Statistics: Prohibited Items Intercepted at Airport Screening2478Checkpoints; No. 2, Defense Daily, ``TSA's Own Covert Testing2479Showed Failures, DHS IG Says''; No. 3, ABC News, ``TSA fails2480most tests in latest undercover operation at U.S. airports'';2481No. 4, ``No Drone Zone,'' United States Capitol Police; and No.24825, a copy of my bill, the U.S. CP Empowerment Act of 2025.2483    Mr. Gimenez. So ordered.2484    [The information follows:]2485    [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]24862487                                ------24882489         tsa's own covert testing showed failures, dhs ig says2490defensedaily.com/tsas-own-covert-testing-showed-failures-dhs-ig-says/2491        congress/2492By Calvin Biesecker, October 8, 20152493    Spectacular failure rates of airport checkpoint security equipment2494during covert testing by Homeland Security auditors was not a surprise2495to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which operates the2496screening equipment, because the agency's own internal testing showed2497similar results, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector2498General (IG) said on Thursday.2499    ``The recent round of covert testing was not a surprise to us and2500it was not a surprise to TSA,'' John Roth told the House Homeland2501Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security. ``We had been doing2502covert testing over the years with consistently disappointing results .2503. . And what we found after the covert testing was even a little more2504upsetting which was TSA does their own covert testing and those results2505were very similar to our results.''2506    The covert testing referred to by Roth was done by his office and2507showed that in 96 percent of instances Transportation Security Officers2508using Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) at eight airports failed to2509detect hidden threat items. The report is classified but this summer2510the findings were leaked to some media outlets.2511    The AIT systems in question are supplied by L-3 Communications2512[LLL] and are used to screen individuals for metallic and non-metallic2513threat items that may be hidden beneath their clothing.2514    Peter Neffenger, the TSA administrator, told the panel that the AIT2515systems work as designed when used properly.2516    Roth said that TSA never ``elevated the issue'' of its own covert2517test results so that no one else in DHS knew of the problems.2518    ``One of the things we discovered after this round of testing and2519the very vigorous response that the department gave with regard to our2520briefing on the covert testing is that no one in DHS had ever known of2521this issue,'' Roth said.2522    This was a ``surprise'' to senior DHS leadership, including the2523secretary and deputy secretary, Roth said.2524    In a separate hearing last week and again on Thursday to examine2525follow-up by DHS and TSA to the IG's report, Roth said that TSA has2526consistently rejected negative reports coming from the IG's office over2527the years.2528    ``One of the conclusions or themes that I can draw from this is2529that there is a mismatch between risk and meeting the risk,'' Roth said2530of TSA. ``And the sort of working theory that we have is that either2531TSA doesn't understand the nature of the risk or they do understand the2532nature of the risk and worse from that, they don't address the risk in2533any appropriate way.''2534    Rep. John Katko (R-N.Y.), Chairman of the subcommittee, said at the2535outset of the hearing that despite being only 14 years old, TSA has2536``become bureaucratized.'' He added that ``Many times TSA has not2537responded'' to negative audit reports ``and that leads me to the2538conclusion that TSA, while a young agency has become a very2539bureaucratized agency already; too slow to respond and not nimble2540enough to respond.''2541    Roth said he's hopeful that under Neffenger's leadership that TSA2542will make the necessary cultural changes to own up to its deficiencies.2543                                 ______25442545   tsa fails most tests in latest undercover operation at us airports2546abcnews.go.com/US/tsa-fails-tests-latest-undercover-operation-us-2547        airports/story2548            Source said the results were an improvement from 2 years2549                    ago.2550By ABC News, November 9, 2017, 1:10 AM2551    In recent undercover tests of multiple airport security checkpoints2552by the Department of Homeland Security, inspectors said screeners,2553their equipment or their procedures failed more than half the time,2554according to a source familiar with the classified report.2555    When ABC News asked the source if the failure rate was 80 percent,2556the response was, ``You are in the ballpark.''2557    In a public hearing after a private classified briefing to the2558House Committee on Homeland Security, Members of Congress called the2559failures by the Transportation Security Administration disturbing.2560    Rep. Mike Rogers went as far as to tell TSA Administrator David2561Pekoske, ``This agency that you run is broken badly, and it needs your2562attention.''2563    Pekoske was confirmed by the Senate this summer.2564    Inspectors ``identified vulnerabilities with TSA's screener2565performance, screening equipment and associated procedures,'' according2566to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security.2567    The statement added that the findings remain classified but that2568eight recommendations have been made to the TSA to improve checkpoint2569security. It is not clear what those recommendations are.2570    The news of the failure comes 2 years after ABC News reported that2571secret teams from the DHS found that the TSA failed 95 percent of the2572time to stop inspectors from smuggling weapons or explosive materials2573through screening.2574    That report led to major changes ordered at the TSA by then-2575Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson. The agency opened a training2576academy for transportation security officers and changed procedures to2577reduce long lines.2578    Although lawmakers described the TSA's performance in this round of2579testing as poor, it was an improvement from 2 years ago, according to2580the source familiar with the report.2581    In the public hearing today on Capitol Hill, members pushed for the2582full implementation of a program using new scanning equipment that2583creates a 3-D image of bags, giving screeners better ability to spot2584possibly dangerous items.2585Are biometric scans the checkpoint of the future?2586    The equipment is being tested in TSA checkpoints in at least two2587airports, but software and installation challenges have slowed wider2588implementation.2589    Rep. Bill Keating suggested that money is being diverted from the2590agency to build President Trump's promised border wall.2591    ``We have the technology and resources to do it, but we're not2592doing it because . . . we're paying for a wall,'' Keating said.2593    He also noted that Viper teams, specially trained Homeland Security2594units that use canines to secure transportation facilities, are being2595cut from 31 to 8.2596    It is not clear when the report will be released publicly.2597    The TSA said in a statement that it ``concurs with the DHS OIG2598[Office of Inspector General] findings and is committed to aggressively2599implementing the recommendations.''2600    ``We take the OIG's findings very seriously and are implementing2601measures that will improve screening effectiveness at checkpoints,''2602Pekoske said. ``We are focused on staying ahead of a dynamic threat to2603aviation with continued investment in the workforce, enhanced2604procedures, and new technologies.''2605                                 ______26062607                                 [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]26082609                                 ______26102611                                 [GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]26122613    Mr. Gimenez. The gentleman's time has expired.2614    I now recognize the gentlewoman from South Carolina for her2615second round of questioning.2616    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.2617    So TSA has made progress in deploying biometric screening,2618digital IDs, and automated security lanes, but outdated systems2619and work force shortages still slow down those checkpoints.2620    Republicans have long advocated for smart investments in2621innovative technologies that can improve the performance and2622reduce reliance on biological Federal work forces.2623    So, Mr. Freeman, given TSA's growing use of AI-driven2624threat detection and facial recognition, how far are we from2625replacing outdated manual processes at checkpoints with fully2626automated systems?2627    Mr. Freeman. Thank you, Congresswoman.2628    I think the first thing to acknowledge is what TSA has done2629well is give travelers around the country, no matter what2630airport they're at, a sense of not just security but also a2631sense of consistency.2632    The biggest thing that frustrates travelers is, when you go2633through one airport, you have a different experience when you2634go through another airport. TSA has ensured that we have that2635degree of consistency, and we applaud them for it.2636    Some of that consistency includes exactly what you're2637talking about. We're already moving toward more of that2638automated system. We see some of that with the identity2639verification that's taking place. We see that with digital ID2640that happens and is working with the airlines, with Delta,2641United, with American.2642    If you fly through Newark and Atlanta, some of these other2643major hubs, Detroit, you can go through the entire process just2644based on your facial biometrics. It's a wonderful experience.2645It's incredibly efficient. Travelers are moving through in 72646seconds or less using that technology.2647    So I think we're already there. The question is, how2648quickly can we continue to build on this? How do we take it2649beyond the identity verification and use it for baggage2650screening, use it for individual screening? That's where2651there's so much more opportunity.2652    I think there's opportunities for the private sector to2653work more closely with TSA to help realize some of these2654opportunities. You know, there's so much debate about privatize2655TSA, not privatize TSA.2656    What there is, is a great opportunity for TSA, which has2657done some very good things, to work more closely with the2658private sector and really build a partnership here that can2659give the travelers the experience they desire.2660    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you. Just following up with that, are2661there successful models abroad that the United States should2662consider adapting to our aviation environment?2663    Mr. Freeman. There are absolutely lessons learned in the2664United Kingdom and other parts of the world. In fact, the2665report that we put out earlier this year referenced some of2666those lessons learned in foreign markets.2667    I don't think there's one market that is the panacea for2668what we need to do, but there's a combination of lessons2669learned throughout Europe and in other parts of the world.2670We're happy to bring those forward. We document several of2671those in our proposal, and I think we just--sometimes the2672United States acts as if we're the first ones to confront these2673issues, as if we can't learn from some of our partners around2674the world.2675    There's no need to reinvent the wheel here. There's some2676very good things that are done. Europe has made much further2677strides in terms of allowing people to bring liquids back onto2678planes, to keep some of their clothes on, their shoes and2679belts. We can learn from that, and we're hopeful that new TSA2680leadership will be willing to do that.2681    Mrs. Biggs. Thank you so much for your testimony.2682    I yield back.2683    Mr. Gimenez. Thank you to the gentlewoman from South2684Carolina.2685    I want to thank the witnesses for their valuable testimony,2686also the Members for their questions.2687    The Members of the subcommittee may have additional2688questions for the witnesses, and we would ask the witnesses to2689respond to these in writing.2690    Pursuant to committee rule VII(E), the hearing record will2691be held open for 10 days.2692    Without objection, this subcommittee stands adjourned.2693    [Whereupon, at 11:28 a.m., the subcommittee was adjourned.]26942695                           A P P E N D I X  I26962697                              ----------26982699Supplemental Testimony of Geoff Freeman, President and Chief Executive2700                    Officer, U.S. Travel Association2701[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]27022703                                 [all]