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Today, Congressman Dan Burton co-signed a letter with many of his colleagues addressed to the Chairman and the Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security requesting that they conduct an oversight hearing on the new airport screening procedures. 

In recent weeks, Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) new airplane passenger searches have left travelers feeling angered as well as apprehensive about booking their next trip. A number of residents from Indiana’s 5th Congressional District have contacted Representative Burton’s office voicing their aggravation towards TSA.

The scanners, which now stand between passengers and their departing flight use either millimeter waves or low-dose x-rays to perform what have been called “virtual strip searches,” to ensure flyers are not concealing any questionable metallic and non-metallic items beneath their clothes.

By the end of the year, TSA plans to have 500 scanners deployed to airports nationwide.

Another issue brought to Rep. Burton’s attention by his constituents was the demeanor and “lack of human regard” TSA officials have been displaying to passengers. While TSA tries to balance safety and travelers’ right to privacy, media has brought attention to the challenges facing medical patients, the elderly, and children. Most agree that full body scans and pat downs are needed at this time in our history to safeguard Americans who fly, but there is a need to greatly improve TSA’s enhanced search protocol, starting with personnel.

For now, those who are planning to brave airports this holiday season, be prepared for longer lines and increased security. For example, more and more people are trying to travel without having to check-in their luggage which in turn makes screening hundreds of backpacks and near-busting athletic bags that much more difficult.




For helpful tips: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/screening_experience.shtm