Press Releases
Carter Introduces Legislation to Improve Airport Security Screening
Washington,
December 12, 2016
Congressman Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (GA-01) introduced the TSA Screening Transparency and Accountability Act to analyze the cost effectiveness, efficiency, and customer satisfaction of the Screening Partnership Program (SPP) compared to airport screening through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). SPP allows for privatized passenger screening where airports can opt-out of TSA screening by contracting with a company to provide passenger and baggage screening commensurate with TSA standards and under the oversight of the federal government.
Currently, 21 airports utilize SPP and additional airports have applications pending. However, on January 28, 2016, then-TSA Administrator John Pistole announced that SPP would no longer expand to additional airports. "Airports that utilize the SPP have seen improved customer experiences, shorter wait lines, better communication with local officials and an overall more efficient process with screening passengers," said Carter. "The action taken by the TSA to freeze the growth of the program is shortsighted and without explanation. Private security screeners, under the oversight of the TSA, have provided secure and efficient security methods. If airports want the flexibility to use private security screeners to improve their customer service, the government should encourage this effort." Specifically, the TSA Screening Transparency and Accountability Act:
Click here to view the text of the TSA Screening Transparency and Accountability Act. |