Washington, D.C. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), a member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security, released the following statement after Congress approved the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) request to shift $34 million in its FY 2016 budget to hire additional Transportation Security Officers and pay overtime in order to help alleviate long lines and wait times at airports.

“With air travel expected to surge in the coming months, Congress’s decision will enable TSA to better prepare for heightened demand and minimize travel disruptions, making travel easier for passengers in airports across the country,” said Congressman Payne, Jr.

“I thank my colleagues for taking this important step to improve passenger service while protecting airport security.”

Congress’s decision follows a letter Reps. Payne, Jr., Rice (NY-4), and Keating (MA-9) sent urging House appropriators to approve TSA’s request for additional screeners.