Senator Webb of VA finally got around to having a lackey cut and paste a response. Why do they always talk about the balance of safety v. privacy? Why is it never normalized or weighed in view of the minuscule risk to my safety v. the guaranteed intrusion of my privacy?

Dear Mr. Mad_Max_Esq:

Thank you for contacting my office regarding the implementation of potentially invasive pat-down procedures by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA). I appreciate your taking the time to share your views with me.

Earlier this year, TSA began incorporating advanced imaging technology as part of the regular security screening procedures. These machines are able to create images that have the ability to reveal plastics and powders that a passenger may be hiding on their person. In October 2010, TSA announced that pat-down procedures would serve as an alternative to the advanced imaging screening when coupled with going through a metal detector. Although the pat-downs are intended to be brief and respectful, some argue that the process is intrusive and raises privacy questions. Proponents of aggressive security measures contend that such measures are necessary to prevent future terrorist attacks. These enhanced screening procedures enable TSA agents to locate non-metallic explosives that may be hidden under clothing, which is particularly important after the events of Christmas Day 2009, when a passenger attempted to ignite non-metallic explosives on board an airplane.

It is critical that we strike an appropriate balance between keeping air travel safe and preserving privacy rights. I believe that more must be done to improve intelligence collection and information sharing across federal agencies, even as we enhance the screening process. Please be assured that my staff and I will continue to examine this situation to ensure the best interests of our citizens are served. In the meantime, the Department of Homeland Security has created a Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) to address security screening related questions and complaints of travelers. To obtain further information, please visit www.DHS.GOV/TRIP.

Thank you once again for contacting me and my staff on this important matter. I hope that you will continue to share your views with us in the years ahead.

Sincerely,


Jim Webb
United States Senator