Background screening for travelers a possibility

TSA pat downs and screening machines that air travelers have been facing recently. Introduced to diminish the terrorist threat, a lot of the public feels that these checks take it too far – that restricting civil liberties should not be a part of ensuring national security. For those that have taken a deeper look into the matter, you may know that ‘trusted traveler’ checks have been discussed as a solution. The ‘trusted traveller’ proposal put forth to the Transportation Security Association (TSA) would require people to submit information for a background check to confirm their safe nature before moving on to another security check. ASTA (The American Society of Travel Agents) president and chairman Chris Russo said the trusted traveller program would restore public confidence in the travel industry and airline security. “To be sure, the travelling public has legitimate concerns regarding their privacy and civil liberties that should be addressed, but these concerns must be weighed against the paramount need for secure air transportation,” Mr Russo said. “We believe that a ‘trusted traveller’ program would provide the right balance between the two, making the air security system more efficient and effective, and altogether pleasant for the travelling public.” The proposal requests the federal government follow four principles; screen passengers for security risks, refocus security resources, prevent potential threats and protect citizens privacy. What are your thoughts on this? Would you rather be subject to a background screening than a TSA pat down? Or are you comfortable with the approach the TSA is currently taking?]]>