Two Republican Senators have just introduced legislation that would greatly change our airport security screening process…
In this post:
Abolish the TSA Act aims to privatize airport security
Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) have introduced the Abolish the TSA Act, which would eliminate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As it’s described, this would “dissolve the bloated and ineffective” organization, while “allowing America’s airports to compete to provide the safest, most efficient, and least intrusive security measures, under a new Office of Aviation Security Oversight.”
If this were to be passed, within 90 days of enforcement, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, would submit a reorganization plan to Congress that includes:
- Creation of the Office of Aviation Security Oversight within the FAA, solely responsible for overseeing the privatization of aviation security screening
- Rapid transfer of security activities and equipment to qualified private companies
- Transfer of non-aviation security functions to DOT (mass transit, freight rail, pipelines, etc.)
- Proportional reductions of TSA operations and personnel to facilitate transfer of duties
The reorganization plan can’t include requirements for private security companies to “conduct warrantless searches and seizures or extend the TSA’s existence.” There would be a three year transition period, to fully privatize airport screening.
Here’s how Senator Lee describes this:
“The TSA has not only intruded into the privacy and personal space of most Americans, it has also repeatedly failed tests to find weapons and explosives. Our bill privatizes security functions at American airports under the eye of an Office of Aviation Security Oversight, bringing this bureaucratic behemoth to a welcome end. American families can travel safely without feeling the hands of an army of federal employees.”
Here’s how Senator Tuberville describes this:
“The TSA is an inefficient, bureaucratic mess that infringes on Americans’ freedoms. It’s a bloated agency—riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars—that has led to unnecessary delays, invasive pat downs and bag checks, and frustration for travelers. We need to focus on more efficient and effective methods to protect our country without sacrificing the liberties and freedoms of American citizens. The TSA should be eliminated and replaced with privatized solutions that are more targeted, streamlined, and where appropriate, accountable to limited government oversight.”
This is only the latest bad news for the TSA, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced it would abolish the TSA’s unions.
Only time will tell what level of support this measure will have in Congress. It’s unlikely this would be able to overcome the legislative filibuster’s 60-vote threshold, as there are 53 Republican Senators, and I can’t imagine this will get much support from Democrats. As a reminder, the TSA was created in 2001, following the 9/11 attacks, with support from President George W. Bush. Prior to that, airport security had been privatized.
I mean, what can I really say here?
It seems there are two main claims about the TSA, which are being pushed to justify abolishing it:
- The TSA is “bloated and ineffective,” with “an army of federal employees”
- The TSA “infringes on Americans’ freedoms,” with “invasive pat downs and bag checks,” and we’re “sacrificing the liberties and freedoms of American citizens”
Look, there’s nothing inherently wrong with privatizing airport security. As an example, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) uses private contractors for its security screening operations, as part of the TSA’s Screening Partnership Program (SPP). However, there are a few things I’m skeptical about.
First of all, the issue with privatizing things is that the government wants companies to compete for these contracts. Okay, great, that’s fine. The thing is, we all know how capitalism works. It’s all about short term gains, so do you really think a private company will have the proper long term staffing levels, especially if it comes at the expense of margins?
Like, coming out of the pandemic, look at how well the TSA was staffed, compared to your local private business (whether it’s a hotel or restaurant)? Being short staffed is probably more “efficient” (for a company’s bottom line), but it’s not exactly helpful for the public, and I think we prefer a more “bloated” organization, in that sense.
Beyond that:
- I don’t really understand the attack on “invasive pat downs and bag checks,” so do these politicians not want pat downs to be performed and bags to be checked, or what?
- What makes this entire push for “government efficiency” so inefficient (to me) is that over time we see administration changes, and when we’re talking about projects that span many years, you know so many of these changes will eventually be overturned
Bottom line
Two Republican Senators have introduced legislation to abolish the TSA. They argue that the TSA is inefficient, bloated, and infringes on the rights of Americans. So they propose privatizing security. We’ll see if anything comes of this…
What do you make of this legislation to abolish the TSA?
@Ben -- I'm surprised that you're surprised...the average GOP politician is no longer in the mold of a Nelson Rockefeller or a Bob Dole, a John McCain or even a Barry Goldwater. Now, the MAGA pols want to destroy everything the average citizen (Democrat or Republican) depends on -- like Social Security & Medicare, the NIH & CDC, the right to choose & the right to read -- under the guise of "Billionaires Know Best."...
@Ben -- I'm surprised that you're surprised...the average GOP politician is no longer in the mold of a Nelson Rockefeller or a Bob Dole, a John McCain or even a Barry Goldwater. Now, the MAGA pols want to destroy everything the average citizen (Democrat or Republican) depends on -- like Social Security & Medicare, the NIH & CDC, the right to choose & the right to read -- under the guise of "Billionaires Know Best."
Does Tuberville -- who is even dumber than the proverbial stump -- honestly think a private company won't pat people down if the metal detector or scanner goes off? I've never known a politician to have his head that far up his ass...well, Trump, but that's an entirely different topic for another time, another forum.
I work for TSA. I have been serving my country, for nearly 22 years. And I never thought I would last that long. You see, working at TSA is not so easy. Officers not only have to endure poor treatment from the public, but from TSA supervisors. We can easily get written up, over failing to follow proper guidelines, basically nonsense stuff. I have been suspended 2 times, in my years of service, for failing...
I work for TSA. I have been serving my country, for nearly 22 years. And I never thought I would last that long. You see, working at TSA is not so easy. Officers not only have to endure poor treatment from the public, but from TSA supervisors. We can easily get written up, over failing to follow proper guidelines, basically nonsense stuff. I have been suspended 2 times, in my years of service, for failing to follow SOP, and I cannot provide more information than that. So I don't necessary like working for TSA. When one makes a mistake, no body cares. They just write you up! That is one of the reasons why few like working for TSA. But, all fussing aside, what we do at the airport security checkpoint is serious. If TSA is taken out, I don't thing that so many will run the risk of flying, without TSA checking passengers. I certainly would not fly again.
As fun as it is to rip on TSA, it is pretty quick most of the time. Most holdups are usually caused by newbie passengers. Feel free to get rid of 3-1-1 and shoes screening though.
Yeah these two dumb politicians want to see another 9/11. So they can help give their rich buddies contracts.
Horrific idea. Never had issues at TSA. Get Pre-CHECK, life will be easier, laptop stays in bag, shoes stay on. The same procedure of shoes and water goes on at more than 20 international airports I have been to, im a tourist there, I dont go online complaining, im fine being inconvenienced for my safety. I have had airports confiscate my power bank, think of the complaints if that happened here. The gauge is how...
Horrific idea. Never had issues at TSA. Get Pre-CHECK, life will be easier, laptop stays in bag, shoes stay on. The same procedure of shoes and water goes on at more than 20 international airports I have been to, im a tourist there, I dont go online complaining, im fine being inconvenienced for my safety. I have had airports confiscate my power bank, think of the complaints if that happened here. The gauge is how many airport terror attacks have we had last 20 years+. Who would want employees who are not vetted properly, at a pay for profit corporation. Does this really make us safer? Whats next? privatize DEA? FBI? Do you really want a private company with profit being the priority for the one in charge of your security? The probability of corruption is much higher, I would bet the bill involves some Billionaire donor who will suddenly and magically win this contract, and the insider stock buying begins the day the bill passes.
Mr Lee is an embarrassment to my home state. He also went on the Greenland trip this week with Mr Vance. He's clearly, and has been for many years, out of touch with what Utah residents want and need. Anything he touches should be viewed very skeptically
Google Frank Argenbright. He was the owner of the company that provided privatized airport security at EWR & IAD on 9/11.
Paid workers minimum wages and changed the name of his company to negate union organization efforts.
What’s the phrase?
“Those who do not remember the past are doomed to repeat it.”
The Alabama Senator from FLORIDA is inexcusably dangerous to think… this time it will be better.
Don’t forget that it was the republicans who created TSA as part of their post-9/11 government power grab. They created this agency. They created the bloat. Why should we trust them now?
TSA is staffed by many people that clearly do not care about their job, the passengers, or security. Its a joke. But, since Trump wants to get rid of it, suddenly its amazing!
False.
The unchecked brick by brick dismantling of Federal Agencies that PROTECT the public like the EPA, CFBP, HHS, USDA and now TSA all in name of privatization is clear and present danger that will NOT make things more efficient or economical. They will only serve to line the pockets of the rising oligarch class all the while making daily living a gamble for the less fortunate who, turn on their tap for water, apply for...
The unchecked brick by brick dismantling of Federal Agencies that PROTECT the public like the EPA, CFBP, HHS, USDA and now TSA all in name of privatization is clear and present danger that will NOT make things more efficient or economical. They will only serve to line the pockets of the rising oligarch class all the while making daily living a gamble for the less fortunate who, turn on their tap for water, apply for credit, seek medical care, buy food and now try to travel.
Now, all you need to read is the one passage the Ignorant Redneck from Alabama wrote: “replaced with privatized solutions that are more targeted” More targeted??? I’m go out on a limb here and say if you aren’t white expect additional screening or denied access.
What the hell happened common sense and boring politics ♂️
Y'all voted for Trump, that's what happened!
So who's the dumbest now?
Privatization is smart and Trump is keeping his promises, a rare thing these days among elected officials of both parties.
False.
@glenn:
Still the people who voted for chump.
Chump is living proof that a con man does not have to be smart if his victims are stupid enough.
The implication is that government functions are “efficient and economical.” Nothing could be further from reality. Government has no track record for widespread efficiency. Thousands of businesses each and every day are effective and efficient in doing their jobs and serving their markets. If they weren’t, assuming there is competition in those markets, they would not last long. A monopoly is what leads to inefficiency and a lack of economy. Competitive pressure realizes these things...
The implication is that government functions are “efficient and economical.” Nothing could be further from reality. Government has no track record for widespread efficiency. Thousands of businesses each and every day are effective and efficient in doing their jobs and serving their markets. If they weren’t, assuming there is competition in those markets, they would not last long. A monopoly is what leads to inefficiency and a lack of economy. Competitive pressure realizes these things far more effectively.
I can only assume that your claim is rooted in an allegiance to government solutions over the private sector. Fortunately, many of us adhere to the Milton Friedman admonishment that if something can be privatized, it should be privatized. And this sentiment is growing among elected officials - it’s refreshing and long overdue.
BTW, we don’t have oligarchs in America. The use of such a partisan talking points makes me view your comment as partisan which casts it in an even more dubious light.
Oh honey. You are either willfully ignorant or brainwashed beyond repair. Seek help.
But your are COMPLETELY neutral.
@AGrumpyOldMan_GA
Spoken like a true MAGGOT disciple where privatization is the elixir for all that ails the government inefficiency’s.
Let me make it very clear for your narrow minded MAGA Programming; I agree, not all government agencies are bastion of efficiencies nor are all private companies (Why do we have Chapter 11 reorganization?) but, those agencies that are sacrosanct for the safety and wellbeing should be left the hell alone. Whipping privatization across...
@AGrumpyOldMan_GA
Spoken like a true MAGGOT disciple where privatization is the elixir for all that ails the government inefficiency’s.
Let me make it very clear for your narrow minded MAGA Programming; I agree, not all government agencies are bastion of efficiencies nor are all private companies (Why do we have Chapter 11 reorganization?) but, those agencies that are sacrosanct for the safety and wellbeing should be left the hell alone. Whipping privatization across everything will only move to make things less safe for the population as profits will be put ahead of safety.
Regarding my comment about the rise of the oligarchs, I stand by that, not from a partisan position, but from observation from his inauguration where the wealthiest tech bros were front and center says exactly where winds of change are heading. Just as a point of reference, there weren’t oligarchs in the USSR, they became a presence once our current Presidents idol came to power.
So, just take a step back and appreciate the level of safety and security that is afforded to keep you safe before you spout unfounded BS.
Finally, your silence on the point the Ignorant One from AL stated speaks volumes and reaffirms you position on anyone who isn’t a white male.
Let me be very clear here, I not saying or advocating that every function operated by the Federal Government is without inefficiencies. What I am pointing out is that ANY agency charged with the safety and wellbeing of the population should be hands off to privatization.
If you believed that privatization is the elixir for correcting inefficiency and the private sector always makes a profit, then please explain why there is bankruptcy reorganization protection?...
Let me be very clear here, I not saying or advocating that every function operated by the Federal Government is without inefficiencies. What I am pointing out is that ANY agency charged with the safety and wellbeing of the population should be hands off to privatization.
If you believed that privatization is the elixir for correcting inefficiency and the private sector always makes a profit, then please explain why there is bankruptcy reorganization protection? Nothing is perfect but, those that ensure safety are not be bid out to the lowest bidder.
As it relates to your oligarch response, if you believe that this class is not on the rise then please explain why the Tech Bro’s were front and center at the inauguration? Russia didn’t have an oligarch class until Putin came into power where the current resident of 1600 Pennsylvania is following that playbook 100%.
Finally, you silence on “replaced with privatized solutions that are more targeted” speaks volumes so, I’ll just leave it there based on your location annotated in your screen name.
Tuberville is one of the dumbest senators ever elected with Lee not far behind. How many bombs and guns did TSA not find? How do those two idiots know this since I’m not aware of any planes in the US blowing up in flight nor highjackings recently. Can’t wait for airport security to go to the lowest bidder paying minimum wages (adding more to the food stamp program, if it survives Musk!).
When your comment is a screed of unsubstantiated personal insults it can’t and shouldn’t be given any credence. It is highly unlikely future privatized security staff will be paid federal minimum wage as the market has rendered that number large obsolete. Another comment that undermines any credibility of this post.
False. Change your name to ADementiaOldMan_Racist
@Greg What does privatization have to do with racism? You’re confusing being economically right with being socially/culturally right, and the “Grumpy Old Man” is fortunately the former.
I was a pre board screener in college. The wages were at or slightly higher than the minimum wage at the time, The biggest issue was people being assholes to us, and people who had badges that tried to bypass security when they weren't working. I thought if wages were higher you would get better quality people. What I see now is more employees than necessary and the percent of weapons missed is about the...
I was a pre board screener in college. The wages were at or slightly higher than the minimum wage at the time, The biggest issue was people being assholes to us, and people who had badges that tried to bypass security when they weren't working. I thought if wages were higher you would get better quality people. What I see now is more employees than necessary and the percent of weapons missed is about the same when I worked. I would say that a a minimum staffing would ensure enough people to work. I don't want it to go back to where certain contracts were given to companies that will only hire people of a certain nationality (remember when SFO was staffed at almost 100% Phillippino?). If the FAA or whoever had oversight and had people whose only job was to try to get weapons ect through security. Also a bonus program that is paid out for every weapon found will up the percentage of weapons caught.
Shows you know nothing because there is a bonus program for recovered illegal items.
A better option is just to work on eliminating the requirement to remove shoes (which is literally not practiced in almost every other country) and the 3-1-1 liquids rule (considering the 1-1 part is rarely, if ever, enforced in the US).
Threats have evolved since the 2000s. While the existing procedures made sense when the threat of terrorism was mushrooming left and right across the globe, times have changed. We are more likely to...
A better option is just to work on eliminating the requirement to remove shoes (which is literally not practiced in almost every other country) and the 3-1-1 liquids rule (considering the 1-1 part is rarely, if ever, enforced in the US).
Threats have evolved since the 2000s. While the existing procedures made sense when the threat of terrorism was mushrooming left and right across the globe, times have changed. We are more likely to face other challenges like geopolitical crises, plane crashes, cyber attacks, and so on than some science experiment (in the form of liquid explosives) going wrong inflight above 30,000 feet.
I mean, what sort of terrorist attack has been prevented by making sure all toiletries are in a plastic bag, and that the bag seals? Also, bad actors can combine small containers in order to make a large hazardous item, can they not? And at a time where we should focus on sustainability in air travel, does the excess waste of disposed items and plastic bags make the situation worse?
Same with the shoes rule: The shoe bomber incident happened on a flight leaving from Paris, France to Miami. I don't remember CDG having such a TSA style policy when I went through there.
Wait - did Musk just buy a private security company??
Horrible idea. The CEO and investors might do well, at a cost of good security. It’s a near impossible job but they are mostly effective, great at PDX from where I fly, and recent improvements must discourage those with bad intentions. There is necessary theater, but private will be costly and deadly.
that is an insult to those that had to work their ass off for shitty wages.
Costly and deadly based on what? Private businesses are more efficient than government and competitive bidding for contracts will put downward pressure on costs. And air travel was particularly deadly when we had private security before TSA. There’s no reason to believe that the 9/11 terrorists would have been caught had the screener received his paycheck from the federal government rather than a security contractor.
False. Stop spamming propaganda.
Costly and deadly based on what? Private businesses are more efficient than government and competitive bidding for contracts will put downward pressure on costs. And air travel was particularly deadly when we had private security before TSA. There’s no reason to believe that the 9/11 terrorists would have been caught had the screener received his paycheck from the federal government rather than a security contractor.
wouldn't expect anything else from Lee and a football coach
Football coaches come up with great ideas like this one! Thank you, Coach Tuberville!
Caoch T projects himself as an uninformed, bigoted person.
Not a good idea to privatize cost is more and work force prior to 9-11 was subpar workers not a risk I wanna take if I was a senator.
I haven’t seen a lot of difference between pre- and post-TSA. We aren’t talking about TSA staffers that are the caliber of FBI agents or police officers. They were good for the Dems of 20+ years as a sop to the government employee unions. Security was fine before TSA. We rarely need government to undertake these functions that can be done by the private sector.
False.
@AGrumpyOldMan_GA
"Security was fine before TSA."
Yeah, the whole 9/11 thing is just being so blown up by the Radical Left and the Republican president George W Bush never started the TSA in response. Everything was just fine with private security until something federal was implemented after this minor incident in 2001 happened, when privatized airport security was still in place. Privatization is the only answer to any question because we need to...
@AGrumpyOldMan_GA
"Security was fine before TSA."
Yeah, the whole 9/11 thing is just being so blown up by the Radical Left and the Republican president George W Bush never started the TSA in response. Everything was just fine with private security until something federal was implemented after this minor incident in 2001 happened, when privatized airport security was still in place. Privatization is the only answer to any question because we need to be blinded by hatred towards anything from the public sector by default. There is no other choice. No matter what it is, if it's government, it's bad.
It's bad enough that Trump and his MAGA cult side with warmongering Russia while destroying the USA from the inside out, but apparently you now also side with Y'all Qaida. Funny how Trump always seeks out like-minded people as his friends, right?
I really feel sorry for you. You really seem delusional and brainwashed beyond repair with your easily debunked lies.
I haven’t seen a lot of difference between pre- and post-TSA. We aren’t talking about TSA staffers that are the caliber of FBI agents or police officers. They were good for the Dems of 20+ years as a sop to the government employee unions. Security was fine before TSA. We rarely need government to undertake these functions that can be done by the private sector.
The this is not the answer to the problems they should put more into technology and politicians should put there egos aside and address technological issues and intel gathering we don’t want another 9-11 I wouldn’t want history to repeat it self because, few people with power will decide you and your family’s faith just to save a few dollars and boost there reelection .
I've said it once and I'll say it again -- if you're so in love with the idea of private security, how about you visit Kansas City and check it out in person at MCI. You know, a nice real-world example instead of just theoretical.
My opinion? VMD Corp is no better than the TSA, and in my experience several years ago it was perhaps slightly worse.
We had a real world example before TSA when security was private. It was fine and no worse than TSA.
False. Who paid you to spread propoganda?
We had a real world example before TSA when security was private. It was fine and no worse than TSA.
We can't even seem to implement the REAL ID Act. Can you imagine how implementation of this would "work"?
Grifters will be grifters. Let's replace it with a monopoly whose only goal is to maximize profit for the owners, lining politicians pockets all the way.
Basically, they want Boeing all over again.
Disgusting. Especially after they fix the TSA in the last decades (no more long lines, generally courteous employees, PreCheck, etc.) all without a single terrorist incident.
How about abolishing the international transit process as well? If you are going to put the screening process in he hands of private companies, I believe international screening will be mich more better than private ones. How often do we hear about international flights letting a gun or explosive get past security vs those at US airports?
Because they don't release test information.
Which would be exactly the same way if the US system goes private - everything will be classified under the excuse of security. I guarantee you about it.
Sorry, lobbyists will guarantee it.
The TSA is useless. I would be up for abolishing DHS also. 9/11 was long ago and those threats don't exist anymore.
False.
The one big issue is the fact that they repeatedly fail random test for weapons and such. Seems like that is the most important issue. How does private security make that better? Have they gotten quotes to see if it would actually be less expensive? As always, the idea is good, but the execution is vague and questionable.
as I said provide a bonus (perhaps cash on the spot) to the screener that found the weapon. When I was a screener in charge, all of us would reward screeners that found a weapon by giving them extra time for breaks.
They already provide bonuses. Stop spreading false information.
I actually don't have a problem with TSA and generally have a favorable opinion of them. But the way you all complain about them says the majority of comments would want an overhaul.
But the anti-Trump hysteria on this site will blind you to believe this cannot possibly be good because it was introduced by two Republicans. Change the story to be introduced by Dems and you'd be jumping up and down for it to happen.
"Change the story to be introduced by Dems and you'd be jumping up and down for it to happen."
This may be true. But that's because pretty much everything being pushed by the Republic party these days is geared to harming or killing people (and no, that not hyperbolic - taking away Medicaid harms and kills people, as just one example. Gutting the EPA harms and kills people, just as another example. And the list...
"Change the story to be introduced by Dems and you'd be jumping up and down for it to happen."
This may be true. But that's because pretty much everything being pushed by the Republic party these days is geared to harming or killing people (and no, that not hyperbolic - taking away Medicaid harms and kills people, as just one example. Gutting the EPA harms and kills people, just as another example. And the list is endless.). So it only makes sense that people who are capable of thinking for themselves recoil, immediately and viscerally, at any legislation put forward by RWNJs. The RWNJs have done it to themselves.
You are not giving "an example" by making vague statements. Please share with the group, whose Medicaid has been taken away and been harmed and killed because of it? Who has been harmed and killed because the EPA has been "gutted"? You are making it sound like many people have been harmed and killed. I am asking for one example of each.
The “killing” people argument the left uses for everyone they don’t like is so tired and divorced from reality. It’s effectively an admission of the lack of a strong counterpoint.
Not true. I'm a Democrat and I'm in favor of getting rid of TSA. I want to return airport security back to the era where it was at the gate, and, regrettably, this doesn't do that. My issue isn't with the bill, it's the sponsors. Mike Lee is a massive flake. And Tuberville...really good football coach, horrible senator. He's the stupidest person in the Senate by far.
Naw, the dumbest senator award goes to my own Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Probably a lot of others in the running unfortunately.
Tammy is my senator too, and she's certainly not dumb. Neither is Dick. We in Illinois are very well represented in the Senate, thank you.
False.
Next step. Private operators charging a “security screening fee” directly to passengers so they can low-ball their competitive bid to the government.
I note that the $5,60 tax we pay today is not repealed in this bill. That tax was introduced after 9/11 (initially at a lower rate) to pay for TSA.
This bill is nothing to do with “We the people” it’s about some senators creating a business opportunity for some wealthy friends.
Amen. Pure grift.
I’d prefer business to solve problems than government. At least business owners earn their wealth from entrepreneurial. I don’t worry about successful prior and their wealth. It’s none of my concern and why some obsess over it is beyond me. Jealousy maybe?
You are 100% being paid to spam these forums with propaganda. Pathetic.
Great idea! Tsa is super inefficient. Once we privatize it, everyone will be a tsa pre like experience. Think about how great it is to show up 15 minutes before you scheduled flight and still make it
Wishful thinking. That's not going to happen with this privatization bill.
It’s heartbreaking what’s happening to our institutions and govt. if you privatize every function, privacy and security goes out of the door. We become the product and these companies will “sell us” however their business needs dictate. We don’t elect CEOs but we elect govt officials, we will have no say.
Personally, I am wondering how an "Army" of privatized staff who can treat you exactly like TSA can will make a traveler any more comfortable.
911 happened with Private security firms. That should be the end of the story
Safety should be the job of government
Amen.
If the government had oversight over the screening then it would work.
After 9/11 there were arguments against TSA. The problem was that none of those arguments showed how to avoid the problems that we had then with private security.
At the time going from airport security to McDonalds was a promotion. And we got what they paid for.
I can be convinced. But to be convinced I'll need to be shown how they are going to avoid the race to the bottom that makes today's TSA look like the 'best and the brightest'
If the Senators could add a clause in the Bill that prevents foreign nationals or passport holders entering the Country or American citizens leaving by air, then you can also abolish all aspects of airport Immigration and Customs thereby saving millions and millions of $$$$. I think this would be a valuable addition to the Nation’s exceptionalism and isolation which is so much admired.
It works extremely well in North Korea. I think you're on to something.
The whole security screening process should be automated with AI reviewing scans, AI is already much better at pattern recognition than humans. I have a sense private companies could implement this faster than TSA.
Exactly. Rejected bags could be sent to an actual human to inspect.
The real threat to safety of air travel? Drunks and mentally ill people, something that was far less problematic in 2001. The cure? Start throwing them in prison for a year when they cause a problem rather that give them a court date they will never show up for and if they do, probation. That would stop most of the behavior quickly as lowlifes have their own grapevine network.
Uh, lol. All that AI-produced imagery with seven fingered hands and other such nonsense gives me all the confidence in the world wrt AI driven bag scans. /s
"The TSA is an inefficient, bureaucratic mess that infringes on Americans’ freedoms. It’s a bloated agency—riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars—that has led to unnecessary delays, invasive pat downs and bag checks, and frustration for travelers".
One wonders on what basis this senator makes such sweeping claims. As others have said, this bill is unlikely to pass, so one should read this for what it is: another excuse to beat up...
"The TSA is an inefficient, bureaucratic mess that infringes on Americans’ freedoms. It’s a bloated agency—riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars—that has led to unnecessary delays, invasive pat downs and bag checks, and frustration for travelers".
One wonders on what basis this senator makes such sweeping claims. As others have said, this bill is unlikely to pass, so one should read this for what it is: another excuse to beat up on Federal employees, to distract the public from the ineptitude of the Congress. As a member of a body who has not been able to pass a budget in two years, the senator hardly has room to complain about waste and abuse in an organization with which he is unlikely to have more than a passing acquaintance.
P.S. On the common complaint on this conversation: Why are all these people dragging around big water bottles that they can't get through security?
Yeah, it's dumb. Of course you can take a giant water bottle through security, you just have to leave it empty until you're through and then fill it in the secure area. I do this every time I fly because they never provide enough water on the flight. The real problem is them taking away sunscreen/toothpaste/medications, all of which should be very easy to verify that it isn't actually a bomb.
Dusty is a bomb specialist now!
Fine post to confirm the Dunning-Kruger effect.
I'm not sure this will happen, but I agree, TSA is a joke. I've been to airports with private security (SFO, MCI to name a few) and they all follow the same process. So if the goal is to end a federal agency and make it more local but still follow federal guidelines not much will change.
As an aside, I always chuckle now when I see the CT scanner you have in this...
I'm not sure this will happen, but I agree, TSA is a joke. I've been to airports with private security (SFO, MCI to name a few) and they all follow the same process. So if the goal is to end a federal agency and make it more local but still follow federal guidelines not much will change.
As an aside, I always chuckle now when I see the CT scanner you have in this post. Did they not have a focus group before putting "ANALOGIC" on the side of their machine? Yes, there's a 12 year old boy inside of me that finds it funny, especially since we make jokes about free colon cancer screenings at the airport. I'm sure the name isn't "Anal-Logic" but I can't help but say it that way. LOL
Not the best idea to say “ there’s a 12 year-old boy inside of me“ when making a joke about anal logic.
Privatizing can save a lot of money. Government agencies face little to no accountability to their budget. The service will be the same at lower cost. Some low information people won’t like this: space X has saved NASA many billion, and increased their capability many times over.
You are beyond lost. The Federal government has the most stringent accountability rules in the US, because they are a public service beholden to the taxpayer and anything could be FOIA'd at any time. This is what the OMB and GOA agencies exist for. Letting a private company rip off the federal government (the usual outcome in this scenario) is not the solution.
Re: SpaceX, the progress they've made is incredible yes. But that's not...
You are beyond lost. The Federal government has the most stringent accountability rules in the US, because they are a public service beholden to the taxpayer and anything could be FOIA'd at any time. This is what the OMB and GOA agencies exist for. Letting a private company rip off the federal government (the usual outcome in this scenario) is not the solution.
Re: SpaceX, the progress they've made is incredible yes. But that's not because NASA is inefficient or bad at space exploration. NASA's problem was and is a lack of funding and a lack of direction, directly caused by the end of the Cold War and the lack of a military rival to keep tabs on. NASA is a big part of the reason for SpaceX's success, they were forced by Congress to provide a lot of technical knowledge and practices to SpaceX. To say nothing either of the billions the US government has subsidized SpaceX for.
@Tim Larsen
No. Privatizing does not save a lot of money. You want to see what privatizing does? Look at the England and what has happened to the public utilities such as water, gas, electricity and the mess private companies have made and how unaffordable these essential services have become since Margaret Thatcher sold them to private interests.
False. Who paid you to post propoganda?
Coach Tuberville might be the single dumbest US Senator of all time. Just truly an idiot. Congrats Alabama on that one.
SFO is private and the experience there is no better than TSA airports.
Efficiency is great until something goes wrong. Gotta have some resiliency, which I guess everyone thinks is “bloat”. It’s just proper risk management.
If it goes private, something tells me it won’t be a security company winning the contact. In “nothing matters but increasing profits” America, I could totally see a large financial company outbidding all the security firms
There’s way too big of an opportunity for a company to bundle security speed/priority to a credit card product with an annual fee. They’d generate so much revenue on top of whatever the government is paying for them to run “security”
Minimum wage workers that will flip a tablet asking for a tip before they decide to let you through.
If it goes private, it will be staffed by low paid immigrants who will be allowed in on a special visa as slave labor.
Isn't the long term goal to privatize everything, not just airport security, so that profits can be made?
That's the Republican goal, because even though they "serve" in the government they can't fathom that they and their cronies shouldn't be able to profit from the services the government provides.
Thousands
Standing
Around
I can't wait to get rid of them!
END THE TSA. It's far beyond time to shut down this agency full of sexual predators. When are you going to write the story highlighting the fact that prior sexual molestation convictions are NOT an automatic disqualifier for being hired?
Huh.. "Full of" or you found anecdotal evidence that it may be possible? Godda love the torch & pitchfork mob mentality for a quick laugh.
False.
Right now I prefer this administration just concentrate on screwing up / improving one thing at a time.
The ironic thing about this drive for efficiency is that most Americans don’t seem to realise the economy essentially runs on wasteful spending. If people stopped spending money they don’t have on things they don’t need, the American economy and society would totally collapse.
If they really want to privatise sections related to aviation, why not privatise the airports themselves? Works well in rest of the world, why not in US?
Obviously you haven't been to Heathrow, and paid their fees (look at the breakup on your ticket - fees to the airport are like $64, on top of any government tax)!
The best run airports are all government owned and operated: Singapore Changi, Doha, Tokyo, Seoul etc, and none charge passengers even a fraction of what Heathrow does?.
TSA has a lot of issues yes, but all in all it has been on a positive trend over the past 5 years. Could we possibly privatize it? Sure. Do I trust these clowns, especially Tommy "Coach" Tuberville and Mike "Bail out the Murderer" Lee to do their due diligence and put together a workable private framework rather than just trying to tear down a government service because they hate the government they serve? Hell...
TSA has a lot of issues yes, but all in all it has been on a positive trend over the past 5 years. Could we possibly privatize it? Sure. Do I trust these clowns, especially Tommy "Coach" Tuberville and Mike "Bail out the Murderer" Lee to do their due diligence and put together a workable private framework rather than just trying to tear down a government service because they hate the government they serve? Hell freaking no. These two idiots barely clear the bar set by MJT.
Unfortunately I don't see this passing. Screening could be done very quickly and efficiently using AI versus versus under paid mall cops. But people will whip up fear and the sheep will cower in a corner.
Pardon me, I'm just here for the comments **popcorn crunch **
@Ben- regarding capitalism…are you suggesting a better alternative? If so, please say?
I think he’s suggesting that in this case publicly run TSA might better than private.
One only has to watch documentaries about PA103 that exploded with a bomb over Lockerbie as to why private security companies and aviation are a bad mix.
Private company = for profit. To make the most profit you want the lowest costs. Says it all really.
Private vs government-operated has nothing to do with it. What matters is having a good legal framework keeping up the screening standards high (while also reasonable), with appropriate oversight in place. If you do, it doesn't matter who does the check. Vast majority of EU airports has security checks handled by private companies with no major incident in over two decades. The worst case scenario was Hungary not passing an audit once, but even then...
Private vs government-operated has nothing to do with it. What matters is having a good legal framework keeping up the screening standards high (while also reasonable), with appropriate oversight in place. If you do, it doesn't matter who does the check. Vast majority of EU airports has security checks handled by private companies with no major incident in over two decades. The worst case scenario was Hungary not passing an audit once, but even then it was discovered during a routine oversight check, not by someone actually smuggling something on board - when it happened, all other member states immidiately stopped accepting Hungarian security checks as valid for transfers. In the meantime, TSA is constatly proven to be letting the vast majority of contraband during routine checks through, and no one does anything to fix it.
Who does the screening doesn't matter. The agency oversighting them, and the standards they are hold to does.
Regarding other countries doing it successfully with private companies... I think you underestimate the importance of profit over all else in the U.S.
I mean, they could just propose to fix the problems they see (assuming they actually think there's a problem and aren't just making it up). After all, they have more power now than they've ever had to implement change.
But instead, they'd rather utilize whatever opportunity they can to give money...
Regarding other countries doing it successfully with private companies... I think you underestimate the importance of profit over all else in the U.S.
I mean, they could just propose to fix the problems they see (assuming they actually think there's a problem and aren't just making it up). After all, they have more power now than they've ever had to implement change.
But instead, they'd rather utilize whatever opportunity they can to give money to private companies and their CEOS. In the end, the middle class (customers and employees of these companies) will be left holding the bag.
Private vs Government has everything to do with it.
Motivation for a start.
Government - to provide a service (whether profitable or not)
Private - to make a profit by providing a service which will usually involve charging as much as possible for a service at the lowest cost to the business.
Yes, some countries do use private firms however, they are not the US which is the Wild West of the corporate world.
In Spain I’ve taken bags through screening with razor blades, penknives and bottles of wine. Last time I saw my bag go across the monitor that the screener was supposed to be watching and he didn’t look at it once since he was chatting to a coworker the whole time.
This will not pass. But in all honesty, can security at the airport get any worse? Foreigners complaints traveling to the US are loudest about "rude, aggressive TSA agents who yell at them to put their stuff in the bin and take their shoes off." Hardly a well ran security organization.
It's 2025 and if you don't have Pre-Check/Clear, people are still taking their shoes off, laptops out of bags, no water before security...
This will not pass. But in all honesty, can security at the airport get any worse? Foreigners complaints traveling to the US are loudest about "rude, aggressive TSA agents who yell at them to put their stuff in the bin and take their shoes off." Hardly a well ran security organization.
It's 2025 and if you don't have Pre-Check/Clear, people are still taking their shoes off, laptops out of bags, no water before security and no liquids above 3.4 ounces. Despite having the latest and greatest technology. Oh, and TSA lines still move very slow, Pre-Check or not. TSA could use a refresh and an overhaul. To say that something major shouldn't change is ludicrous.
Foreigners complain... Then let them travel to other countries.
I have TSA Pre and I have never had a problem. All agents I have met over decades of flying, have been nothing but professional and helpful. And yes, every single one of them. Heck, just the other day, when flying out of DCA, one of them came to help me look for one of my earbuds that I thought I had lost.
Leave the TSA alone.
"Foreigners complain... Then let them travel to other countries." - They increasingly do. But what a lovely attitude! Hey, we could look at fixing the problems we have but the feedback comes from foREiGneRs (people who actually have a lot of travel experience), who point out that it's done much more effeciently elsewhere - that's a clear attack on the best country in the world, and we should double down on being an example of...
"Foreigners complain... Then let them travel to other countries." - They increasingly do. But what a lovely attitude! Hey, we could look at fixing the problems we have but the feedback comes from foREiGneRs (people who actually have a lot of travel experience), who point out that it's done much more effeciently elsewhere - that's a clear attack on the best country in the world, and we should double down on being an example of how to not do it fpr the rest of the world.
They increasingly go elsewhere... they should have less issues, then. I have no problem with that.
Some of the rudest travel related employees I have ever experienced in my decades of travelling have been at airports in Budapest, Vienna, Geneva, Frankfurt, Delhi, Sydney and Melbourne. Their countries... I leave them to it.
"All agents I have met over decades of flying, have been nothing but professional and helpful."
Sorry, what universe are you living in? If I am not getting personally screamed at by TSA agents a few feet from my face over minor infractions such as forgetting to take out a laptop, forgetting to leave my laptop in the bag when using precheck, not getting in the line the agent wanted me to be in, and...
"All agents I have met over decades of flying, have been nothing but professional and helpful."
Sorry, what universe are you living in? If I am not getting personally screamed at by TSA agents a few feet from my face over minor infractions such as forgetting to take out a laptop, forgetting to leave my laptop in the bag when using precheck, not getting in the line the agent wanted me to be in, and so on and so forth. I am watching them treat other people in this manner. I simply do not believe you have flown decades (The TSA has only existed for two by the way) and not managed to see a TSA line devolve into a zoo, largely thanks to unprofessional, barely trained TSA agents stopping just a little short of verbally abusing passengers
Speedbird, my experience with TSA sounds nothing at all like yours. I have been flying since the TSA was created.
I am inhabiting a universe that millions of Americans who have TSA PRE inhabit.
Just imagine that that TSA person has to tell you, the thousandth person for the day, to take your darn shoes off. You would have seen the person (s) in front of you doing this and you think what? you were not entitled to do the same? What universe are you inhabiting?
Many people who are not USA originating arrived...
I am inhabiting a universe that millions of Americans who have TSA PRE inhabit.
Just imagine that that TSA person has to tell you, the thousandth person for the day, to take your darn shoes off. You would have seen the person (s) in front of you doing this and you think what? you were not entitled to do the same? What universe are you inhabiting?
Many people who are not USA originating arrived from countries where they have to take their shoes off, electronics and liquid out. I had to do it at Frankfurt. Heck, I could not even use my own ziploc bag for my liquids. As a seasoned traveller - you should know this is still the norm at certain locations. You are not American, you do not have TSA PRE. Do what is required as a visitor to our house. And BTW, stop holding up the darn line.... People behind you have places to go... or don't return to our shores.
Americastan
What an absolute joke. Everyone knows what will happen if this passes. Call your representatives and vehemently voice your concerns and instruct them to vote against it.
Pre-9/11, there were all sorts of documentaries and exposés about how poorly private security worked. In one case, a plant was hired and put on the job with no background check.
That said, bloated rhetoric aside, it's not unreasonable to have a debate about whether the government should stick to regulating. But the plan should include regular testing and extreme penalties for failures.
I would generally be on board with dismantling the TSA to rid us of this bottom-of-the-barrel high-school-dropout set of unionized phoning-it-in-on-autopilot workers, who openly discuss what other jobs they're applying to as you wait in line hoping they notice why the x-ray belt hasn't moved in the last 3 minutes.
But somehow I doubt that whatever replaces it would be much better.
Maybe if whatever company took its place were charged $1 for...
I would generally be on board with dismantling the TSA to rid us of this bottom-of-the-barrel high-school-dropout set of unionized phoning-it-in-on-autopilot workers, who openly discuss what other jobs they're applying to as you wait in line hoping they notice why the x-ray belt hasn't moved in the last 3 minutes.
But somehow I doubt that whatever replaces it would be much better.
Maybe if whatever company took its place were charged $1 for every minute every person has to wait in the line, plus $10000 for every gun that goes missed, things could improve.
Interesting way to broadcast you have a low IQ.
If the TSA is abolished, the September 11th Security Fee would follow, no? One is funded by the other, after all.
If I can finally bring an effing full water bottle, keep my shoes on, and my laptop in my backpack, shut it down.
Your last two requests have been possible for many years with TSA pre-check...
For Australian domestic flights (government-set standards, privately operated airport security) shoes stay on, generally hats and coats off, nothing in pockets, belts and laptops vary between airports (depends on the equipment they have, but they have signage). Water bottles, no problem. TSA's nonsense water bottle rule applies on international flights.
The difference is in Australia, domestic and international flights are completely separated in terms of terminal access. In many cities (SYD/BNE/MEL) domestic flights operate from a completely separate terminal to international flights so Australia is able to set their own requirements as the International rules only apply to International flights.
In oz you do not even have to be travelling to go through security for a domestic flight! Friends and family can come wave...
The difference is in Australia, domestic and international flights are completely separated in terms of terminal access. In many cities (SYD/BNE/MEL) domestic flights operate from a completely separate terminal to international flights so Australia is able to set their own requirements as the International rules only apply to International flights.
In oz you do not even have to be travelling to go through security for a domestic flight! Friends and family can come wave you off at the gate. Feels like back in the day :-)
Other airports in OZ where international flights depart from the same terminal as domestic - Perth, Adelaide, Darwin - you have to pass through security twice. First, domestic security to enter the terminal. And then the laptops/liquids out security to enter the international area of the terminal.
@pstm91 why no water in water bottles? Why no liquids above 3.4 ounces? It's 2025, why can't folks, even those with Pre-Check, have those things pre-security? How much money has been invested in X-ray machines and scanners over the past years? Those machines aren't donated.
@Alonzo - I totally agree, especially with new machines and technology. I specifically didn't comment on that and was only pointing out a fact.
Why no liquids? Our systems don't have the ability to determine the chemical compositions of the liquids through the containers themselves. Why no liquids above 3.4 ounces? If someone were to sneak by with liquids that could be combined at a later time to make poisonous gas for example, the minimal quantity would limit the damage. Bleach and ammonia ( chloramine gas), bleach and vinegar (chlorine gas), bleach and rubbing alcohol (chloroform), hydrogen peroxide and...
Why no liquids? Our systems don't have the ability to determine the chemical compositions of the liquids through the containers themselves. Why no liquids above 3.4 ounces? If someone were to sneak by with liquids that could be combined at a later time to make poisonous gas for example, the minimal quantity would limit the damage. Bleach and ammonia ( chloramine gas), bleach and vinegar (chlorine gas), bleach and rubbing alcohol (chloroform), hydrogen peroxide and vinegar (peracetic/peroxyacetic acid), for example.
I think liquids are more of a commercial decision. Like if you're able to bring a bottled water or some type of drink through security, then the shops airside lose business.
The liquid rule is not due to the ability to make gas. It's explosives.
Combine just a bit of the right liquids and you can get a small explosion. Which is all you need in a pressurized plane to blow a hole in the side.
That's complete nonsense. You can use the hairspray, deodorant, or any of the other stuff in 3.4oz cans to do the same thing with a lighter which are all allowed on board - It's just another bs rule or tax, that once put in place in the US, will never go away... at least until DOGE shuts this crap down.
Imagine who win the bidding process for those contracts, The first sign of trouble those companies gonna file for bankruptcy so they don’t have to pay out claims! lol