http://www.timesunion.com/local/arti...al-9191480.php
I can't find the original thread on this, sorry. I also don't recall reading in that original thread that it was TSA that asked for this:
Apple has said the TSA approached the sheriff's office with the proposal, shortly after TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger told Congress and travelers to expect more visible airport security in the wake of bombings at an airport and train station in Brussels, Belgium, including more random searches even after passengers have cleared security checkpoints.
A trial balloon perhaps to see what they could get away with?
Legislator Frank Mauriello, R-Colonie, said he was in favor of the measure, but thought it would've been helpful if TSA representatives had come out to explain it further.
"We knew they were the ones that came to the sheriff and asked to do this," Mauriello said. "What I found really confusing, once they had our support and ear, they decided not to come."
Obviously, no one up there knows the TSA very well.