Does the TSA Need Help Making Changes to its Prohibited Items List? (H.R. 3144)

What is H.R. 3144?

(Updated December 18, 2017)

This bill would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to consult with the Aviation Security Advisory Committee regarding proposed changes to the prohibited items list. The prohibited items list is a list of objects that could be dangerous if brought onto a plane as carry-on or checked luggage.

Existing law would be modified to ensure that once a member of the Aviation Security Advisory Committee has served two years, they could continue to serve until a successor is in place.

Within 120 days of this bill’s enactment, the TSA would have to provide a status report on the activities of the Transportation Security Oversight Board (TSOB). This report could include changes to the TSOB in light of the establishment of the Aviation Security Advisory Committee.

Argument in favor

The TSA should consult with experts on aviation security before it makes changes to the prohibited items list. It’s the best way to ensure the safety of air travelers.

Argument opposed

The American people can trust the TSA to make educated decisions about what items are safe to bring on planes without consulting an aviation security committee.

Impact

Air travelers, the TSA, the Aviation Security Advisory Committee, and the TSOB.

Cost of H.R. 3144

The CBO estimates that implementing this bill would cost less than $500,000.

Additional Info

In-Depth: Sponsoring Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ) cited the need for consultation between the TSA and other sources of expertise in the aviation industry in his introductory press release:

“My district is home to Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the nation, so I know how important it is to have robust collaboration between the TSA and key aviation stakeholders. These partnerships enhance our understanding of security concerns and vulnerabilities and guide smart aviation policy decisions.”

In 2012, the Administrator of the TSA changed the prohibited items list to allow small knives and sporting goods equipment to be stowed in carry-on luggage and brought onto planes. TSA later reversed the decision.

The House Homeland Security Committee passed this legislation by voice vote, and the bill currently has the support of one Democratic and two Republican cosponsors.

Media:

• Sponsoring Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ) Press Release
• CBO Cost Estimate

Summary by Eric Revell
(Photo Credit: Flickr user warrenski)