Posted on 07/23/2013 2:48:49 AM PDT by TexGrill
If full-body scanners and TSA pat-downs make you feel uncomfortable, you now have an alternate option – for the hefty price of $85.
The Transportation Security Administration has launched a new program that will allow members to bypass regular airport security checkpoints. Those enrolled in the “trusted traveler” program, called TSA PreCheck, will no longer have to remove their shoes, jackets, and belts. Members can also keep their laptop computers in their bags.
Currently, only members of frequent-flier programs are given the opportunity to apply without paying a fee. But TSA Administrator John Pistole on Friday announced that all travelers will soon be able to join PreCheck – as long as they pay $85, provide identifying information, pass a background check, and undergo fingerprinting.
Pistole said that enrollment will be opened to the public later this year, and that he expects an additional 3 million people to sign up for PreCheck before the end of the year. About 12 million travelers are currently enrolled.
If his estimates are accurate, the TSA will reap about $255 million from the program in 2013.
Applicants must visit an enrollment site to undergo identification verification and fingerprinting. PreCheck enrollment will be launched at Washington Dulles International and Indianapolis International airports later this year.
“America’s travel community applauds TSA for making its highly successful trusted traveler program, PreCheck, more accessible to the traveling public,” U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow said in a statement. “By expanding PreCheck enrollment options, today’s action by TSA will help speed more Americans safely through the U.S. air travel system while strengthening America’s aviation security. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
PreCheck passengers receive a Known Traveler Number that allows them to use special security lanes at more than 40 participating airports in the US.
(Excerpt) Read more at rt.com ...
Note to terrorists. Make sure you get a few hundred extra in travel expenses from your leaders to cover this.
Oh, and thanks for the new option, TSA!
The TSA should post a menu:
Shoe bombers = $150
Underwear bombs = $125
Box Cutters = $50
Asile prayer rugs to scare the passengers = $25
The old trick parents pull - pretend to give people choices. But give them Hobson’s choices.
Would you like to eat your broccoli first or your carrots?
Would you like me to look at your nuts with this xray machine or would you like to give me $85 hand have be check with my hand?
I have been a Trusted Traveler, GOES and Nexxus card holder for at least 6 years and it makes a world of difference.
Apart from the quick screening, I also bypass Customs in the US, Canada, and United Kingdom. Not having to stand around for hours with the masses of humanity is a beautiful thing.
Yup. Since the government won't do anything to offend muslims, the terrorists will be ushered right through the lines, so they won't be inconvenienced when blowing up Americans.
Yes, GOES.
This from the same Government that exempted all the Politicians from Obamacare.
IOW, “One way or the other, you’re gonna get a shakedown...”
Every time someone is groped by the TSA, the TSA agent that did the groping should be knocked unconscious, hopefully losing teeth in the process!
Literally, Bush’s fault.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.