10.12.23

Hoeven, Tester Push Back on Burdensome TSA Employee Screening Policy

Senators Stress Concern over Policy’s Impact on Smaller, Rural Airports

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senators John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) recently pushed back on a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employee screening policy that would place burdensome requirements on North Dakota’s airports. In a letter to TSA Administrator David Pekoske, the senators outlined concerns that the new screening policy would place an undue burden on smaller airports in rural states.

Hoeven also worked with Tester to include a provision in the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2024 requiring the agency to delay the policy for one year to solicit public feedback on the proposal, examining both its security benefits and its full financial and operational impacts.

 “We share your commitment to enhancing the safety and security of air travel,” wrote the senators. “We have serious concerns about the National Amendment’s implementation, effectiveness, and cost to operators in its current form. We are especially concerned about the National Amendment’s impacts on smaller, rural airports like those located in our states. These airports are essential to travel nationwide and serve as critical parts of America’s economic engine.”

After Hoeven and Tester sent their letter, TSA announced an implementation delay and enforcement moratorium of one year. Hoeven intends to continue working with TSA and North Dakota airports to find a long-term solution to address these concerns. The full text of Hoeven and Tester’s letter can be read here.

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