The use of Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines by the TSA in airports around the country has been a controversial issue. Security and health concerns have been expressed about the use of the machines, while others think the machines make flying safer. Two Congressmen are sponsoring legislation to restrict use of the machines in airports.
Air travel security has become time consuming and cumbersome with the TSA regulations for screening passengers. However, the TSA has begun considering a “trusted traveler” program recommended by the US Travel Association that would pre-screen passengers via background checks that would enable them to bypass a lot of the extra security screenings.
The Author takes a look at TSA Administrator Pistoles “Determination” regarding unions at the Agency. The author believes it is an interesting document as its stated terms appear critical of the labor law that affects other Federal employees as well as the FLRA that administers that law. The administrator may be heading for a protracted battle if the election results are reasonably close as well as after the election results are certified.
The author asks if the TSA broke management’s obligation to remain neutral while a union vote is pending.
The Author looks at one of the unions involved in organizing TSA. In a letter to airport screeners, a union president promises to continue pressure for a collective bargaining agreement and that if NTEU is elected, all Federal security Agencies present at an airport will be represented by the same union. The Author asks if that is a good idea. You decide.
Whether you love the new security procedures or hate them, there’s no disputing that TSA has been up against a lot of public scrutiny because of the new procedures. Here is how the agency recommends making your air travel easier as you fight the crowds over this Thanksgiving holiday.
The lack of high-speed Internet connectivity and staff shortages have prevented thousands of airport security screeners from getting the training they need.
The Transportation Security Administration awards two new contracts to run the HR function for the agency–one to a California state agency and one to a New York firm.
Unions can be excluded from representing employees at TSA. Authority of the President to exclude employees from union representation is the crux of the dispute over the Homeland Security Dept. Will President exercise that authority at TSA?
