October 4, 2010

Washington, D.C.—Following the Department of State's travel advisory for U.S. travelers to increase vigilance in Europe, Nevada Senator Harry Reid reassured Nevadans that the improved safety measures he has fought for will increase safety and protect the state’s tourism destinations for domestic and international visitors. Reid has worked to increase Nevada’s homeland security funding to keep Nevada’s airports secure and allow for coordination among counter-terrorism agencies. As a result of Senator Reid’s efforts, McCarran and Reno-Tahoe Airports have better safety equipment and updated infrastructure.  Additionally, Senator Reid secured $40 million to expand Customs and Border Protections operations at McCarran to help process and screen international travelers.
 
“Las Vegas is one of the most famous cities in the world and a travel destination for American and international visitors alike,” said Reid. “Ensuring the safety and security of our state’s urban areas and tourist attractions is one of the most important responsibilities I have. The safer travel to Nevada is, the better the experience for our visitors and the more economic opportunities and jobs are created for Nevadans.”
 
In the last decade Reid has been a leader in working to protect the safety and security of Nevada’s airports and tourism destinations.  He has also supported first responders and counter-terrorism agencies including:
 

• Protecting Nevada’s share of Homeland Security Funding: Reid fought to protect Las Vegas’ place in the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) funding and reestablished the city’s place on the list when it was dropped in 2005. Thanks to Reid, Nevada continues to receive more than $53 million in UASI funding.
• Increasing Customs and Border Protection officers at McCarran International Airport: In 2007, Reid secured more than $40 million to expand the presence of Customs and Border Protection at McCarran in order to screen additional international visitors.
• Creating the Southern Nevada Counter-Terrorism Center: Reid fought for additional Homeland Security grant funds to build and operate the center where local police and first responders can work with federal security and law enforcement agencies to share information and protect Southern Nevada from the threat of terrorist attacks.
• Funding infrastructure and safety improvements at Nevada airports: Reid worked to make sure that McCarran International Airport, Reno-Tahoe International Airport, and smaller airports across the state were able to invest in safety upgrades for passenger travel and cargo processing. Reid also secured funding for a new secure baggage screening system at Reno- Tahoe. Because of Reid’s work both the Reno and Las Vegas airports received funding for new state-of-the-art control towers, Reno-Tahoe was able to upgrade its instrument landing system, and the Carson City Airport was able facilitate a $2.1 million safety upgrade.