Sweeten Hoax Shows Need for Increased TSA Standards

Andrews Supports TSA Reauthorization to Improve Aviation Security
  
Over the last week, Congressman Rob Andrews has been tapped by several media outlets, including NBC10, KYW1060, Philadelphia Daily News, and others to comment on Bonnie Sweeten, who allegedly managed to pass TSA and security checkpoints using someone else's ID. Sweeten, along with her nine year old daughter, boarded a flight to Florida during what ended up being a kidnapping hoax in which she faked her abduction. As a member of the House Subcommittee on Terrorism and Unconventional Threats and Capabilities, Rep. Andrews stressed his concern with the TSA's failure to recognize the discrepancy and take appropriate action.

"It could have been a lot worse than that, if the person using the fake ID went on the plane to cause harm to people, it could have been a much more disastrous result," the Congressman told NBC10 anchor Harry Hairston.

Rep. Andrews elaborated further to Metro Philly News, “It is quite bothersome that someone can pass airline and TSA personnel using another person's ID, while having only a questionable resemblance to the actual owner. The fact that allegedly no eyebrows were raised when she purchased two tickets in cash and was able to board with a nine year old shows that heightened security is still very much a necessity."

Today the House of Representatives considered H.R. 2200, Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act, which authorizes $7.6 billion in FY 2010 and $8.1 billion in FY 2011 to enhance efforts to keep Americans safe traveling among all modes of transportation. Congressman Andrews stressed his strong support of this bill because of its emphasis on improving aviation security, so that TSA personnel are better prepared for a threat like Sweeten's or one potentially worse. Specifically, this legislation directs the TSA to establish a system for verifying that all air cargo on inbound foreign passenger flights is properly screened. Additionally, it directs TSA to develop a strategic, risk-based plan to enhance security of airport perimeter access controls. While the cost of security has been a constant concern, the bill allows the TSA to reimburse airports for certain security-related expenses. Also, H.R. 2200 creates a $10 million grant program for improving security measures at general aviation airports based on expert recommendations. Finally, a key aspect of this legislation is beginning to put surface transportation security on an equal footing with aviation security, which works to ensure safety not only for those traveling by air but also along our nation's roads and railways. 

While Sweeten's actions are merely a reminder that America is in no position to diminish its security standards, Congressman Andrews continues to support legislation like the Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act which provides the TSA with the resources it needs to keep its guard up and keep Americans safe. 
 

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