Hudson Urges TSA To Move Faster on Expedited Screening For Low-Risk Frequent Flyers

Rep. Richard Hudson, R- N.C., chairman of the Homeland Security Committee’s Subcommittee on Transportation Security, said Wednesday he was frustrated that the Transportation Security Administration hasn’t moved faster to implement its Pre-Check program.

The program allows low-risk frequent travelers to get through airport screening on an expedited basis — without removing their shoes and taking their laptops out of carrying cases, for example.

“One of the biggest improvements and the biggest areas of hope for me is this move to risk-based security,” Hudson (Twitter: @RepRichHudson) told a policy breakfast sponsored by the Aero Club of Washington.

“Getting folks through expedited screening because we know who they are is very important, not just for commerce… because it makes it easier for us to fly and travel… but because when we actually are taking the people we know out of the mix what we’re left with is people we don’t know — and that’s where the threat comes from,” he said.

Allowing frequent flyers quicker screening will allow the TSA to do a better job of ensuring security at a lower cost to the taxpayers, he argued.

TSA critics have for years called for the risk-based policy Hudson advocated.

“I’m pleased with the progress of Pre-Check but I’m frustrated … at how slow it’s moving,” the North Carolina Republican said.

Hudson said every time he talks to TSA Administrator John Pistole he tells him, “Let’s get this thing moving. Let’s roll this thing out.”

He said private companies involved in the TSA Pre-Check program want to set up booths in malls to enroll more travelers in TSA Pre-Check. Hudson suggested going to large employers’ headquarters and signing up employees.

“Those are the kinds of innovative ideas that we’re trying to push TSA to do,” Hudson said. “Half of the travelers out there, we know who you are. You ought to be going through an expedited process. Then we can deal with the other half.”

Roll Call, by: Tom Curry