H.R. 3463 - COUNTER Act

Summary

The COUNTER Act (Curtailing Ongoing Negligence to Uphold Responsible Enforcement) is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on May 15, 2025. The bill aims to enhance aviation safety and security through a series of new requirements and regulatory changes.

Key Provisions

The main provisions of the COUNTER Act include:

1. Expanded Screening Requirements: The bill would mandate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to implement enhanced passenger and carry-on screening procedures at all commercial airports in the United States. This would include the use of advanced imaging technology, expanded pat-down searches, and additional security checkpoints.

2. Increased Staffing and Training: The legislation calls for a 20% increase in the number of TSA security officers nationwide, as well as expanded training programs to improve their detection capabilities and customer service.

3. Stronger Penalties for Violations: The COUNTER Act would significantly increase civil and criminal penalties for passengers who interfere with or assault aviation security personnel. Fines could reach up to $100,000 and jail time up to 10 years for the most serious offenses.

4. Restricted Carry-On Items: The bill would prohibit passengers from bringing certain items onboard aircraft, including large electronic devices, multiple carry-on bags, and any liquids over 3.4 ounces (with limited exceptions).

5. Improved Passenger Screening Data Sharing: The legislation would require enhanced data sharing between the TSA, airlines, and other relevant agencies to better identify potential security threats.

Impact and Timeline

If enacted, the COUNTER Act would impact all commercial air travelers in the United States, as well as the aviation industry and government agencies responsible for transportation security. The new screening requirements and restrictions would likely lead to longer wait times at airport security checkpoints and could face some public resistance.

The bill has been referred to the House Subcommittee on Aviation for further consideration. If it advances through the legislative process, many of the new policies would need to be implemented within 12-24 months of the bill's passage to allow for necessary infrastructure upgrades and personnel training.

Related Legislation

The COUNTER Act has a companion bill, S. 1793, which has been introduced in the U.S. Senate. The Senate version contains similar provisions but may have some differences in scope or implementation timelines.