Originally Posted by
Caradoc
Considering that CBP already searches laptops and phones, I don't see it as a great stretch for the TSA to assume that authority.
(Note - I don't see that as a good thing. If it's not a hazard to aviation, it's none of the TSA's business.)
But there is a big stretch when the former is applicable only when entering the US (or a "functional equivalent" border) and the TSA is on a totally domestic basis.
If the TSA believes they have this authority, then fine, change the law to extend beyond WEI, which is what the current regulations state. Given the TSA's refusal to provide notice and comment about AIT over a year after the court ordered it to do so, I don't hold out much hope that the TSA feels any compulsion to document this authority except by internal fiat.