Originally Posted by
Flaflyer
The problem with your argument is passengers who
cannot communicate with the TDC. Every day at places like LAX or SFO there must be hundreds of departing visitors who speak no English. Probably lots of elderly who came to the US for a wedding or that once in a life trip to visit the grandkids in the US.
If, as you say, verbal communication is
required as part of the process to verify an ID, then TSA must have a policy in place to have rapid access to translators for every language. If TSA cannot communicate with someone whose only language is an obscure tribal dialect from Tibet then that person can never be "verified" by your argument and will always miss their plane.
Of course all TSA rules are very US centered for English speaking Americans and far too little thought is given to accomodate foreign visiters. In other countries signs and staff are multi lingual and they try to help visitors as they appreciate the value of tourist dollars. Through arrogance and ignorance the US actively encourages foreigners to stay home.
This is a great argument. But in making this argument at the checkpoint, you will have established that you can communicate. At this point the argument will be whether someone can refuse to communicate/cooperate with the TDC.
In the end, you will probably travel. But as a TSM, I would feel uncertain and confused about whether I have the ability to screen someone who refuses to cooperate with the screening process. I would have to consult with senior leaders including TSA law enforcement. I would not want to make a misstep so this process would require consultation before we could allow you to proceed with the screening process. I have no idea how long this will take, and many will be concerned about your refusal to cooperate.
Just saying...
castro