Originally Posted by
sefrischling
Spot,
There are various ways the TSA can focus its resources on security, outside of the encrypted bar code.
For economic resources, the bar code is really more effective as an airline revenue management tool. As airlines continue to roll out 'e-boarding pass' on Mobile Phones & PDAs, the scanners will be deployed eventually to most TSA check points and airlines will cover the expense of creating the encrypted boarding pass system, the actual costs will be minimal.
The DHS needs to refocus the role of the TSA and this new system will have its complications, but it can be a good thing if implemented correctly.
I certainly think the encrypted BPs can be a good thing, especially if the program is a partnership with the airlines (as in, good for both the airlines and TSA, and supported by both groups). The potential problems, however, concern me.
I certainly don't want futher mission creep within TSA. Our job is not to run a criminal dragnet, and the notion of using this type of system to check NCIC status, or and criminal or immigration inquiries. I grow increasingly concerned when I hear about proposals to use TSA ID checks for this purpose. I see the value of getting bad guys off the streets, but I think the cost in decreased civil rights is too great to bear.
Furthermore, in the current economic and political situation, government should be particularly critical of where it spends cash and other resources. If this can yield real security benefits that are directly related to TSA's mission, I am glad for it. I have not read anything in public sources that indicates the sort of benefit I would hope to see.
On the other hand, if this is an item that the airlines want to offer, and TSA is merely cooperating with industry requests, I think it should be explained as such. After all, regulatory agencies are not supposed to inhibit or harm the growth and development of private industry. Regulatory agencies are simply supposed to make sure that public interests and safety are protected.