Congressional representative Charlie Dent (R-PA) has introduced a bill on June 26th, the General Aviation Security Enhancement Act of 2009 that would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to work with the general aviation community to modify their absurd Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP). In October of last year, the TSA had GA operators in a frenzy over their proposed regulations requiring aircraft weighing over 12,500 pounds to be treated as if they were commercial airliners. The regulations would include a criminal history background check for required crew, matching passengers to TSA no-fly and watch lists, screening passengers and baggage for weapons or banned items, and paying for biennial audits.

The TSA has deemed any aircraft that is 12,500 pounds, which is the size of a small moving truck, large. The GA Enhancement Act deals with the LASP specifically, but is similar to an amendment that co-sponsor Pete Olson (R-TX) introduced to the House on June 4th, TSA Authorization Act of 2009 that passed and requires the TSA to include GA stakeholders in the process of creating security regulations that affect the industry.

Both bills are welcomed by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association (AOPA).