(Washington,
D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that Spokane
International Airport will receive funding for advanced imaging technology
included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The funds,
which will be distributed to 28 airports nationwide, will go toward installing
backscatter imaging technology that will be used to screen passengers.
“Keeping
Washington residents safe and keeping our economy moving go hand in hand,” Senator Murray said. “Getting these in-demand,
high-tech machines into Spokane’s airport will help address evolving threats
and keep the traveling public safe.”
Advanced
imaging technology safely screens passengers for both metallic and non-metallic
items, including weapons and explosives, by projecting low level X-ray beams
over the body to create an image, resembling a chalk etching, which is
displayed on the monitor. This system can detect weapons concealed underneath a
passenger’s clothing and allows the Transportation Security Administration
(TSA) to screen without physical contact.
Advanced
imaging technology has been in high demand since the Christmas Day bomber
boarded a flight with hidden explosive materials.
As a
senior member of the Senate Homeland Security Subcommittee, Sen. Murray worked
to ensure that investments in our nation’s security were included in the
Recovery Act. Senator Murray voted to pass the Recovery Act on February
13th. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th.
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