Originally Posted by
Mad_Max_Esq
Why is there no talk of banning laptops from passing through every other security checkpoint that uses an x-ray? Courthouses, the Capitol, the White House, etc. Why the tunnel vision and focusing only on airplanes?
Violent, non-governmental actors certainly don't have their eyes on airplanes as targets as much as some governmental actors do. But airplanes going down violently tends to be much bigger news than a huge number of people dying daily in violent car accidents.
Tourists aren't allowed to take laptops into the White House unless as a very special kind of visitor. The Capitol building also has restrictions on tourist visitors coming in with stuff.
The Capitol building has this, all from the public domain:
The following items are strictly prohibited in the Capitol, including the Capitol Visitor Center:
Prohibited BeveragesProhibited FoodProhibited Weapons
Liquid, including water
Food or beverages of any kind, including fruit and unopened packaged food
Aerosol containers
Non-aerosol spray (Prescriptions for medical needs are permitted.)
Any pointed object, e.g. knitting needles and letter openers (Pens and pencils are permitted.)
Any bag larger than 18" wide x 14" high x 8.5" deep
Electric stun guns, martial arts weapons or devices
Guns, replica guns, ammunition, and fireworks
Knives of any size
Mace and pepper spray
Razors and box cutters
Please note that the U.S. Capitol Police are authorized to make exceptions if a prohibited item is determined to be necessary and required to serve child care, medical or other special needs. If you have questions, please call the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services at 202.224.4048.
The following items are not allowed in the Senate and House Galleries:
Battery-operated electronic devices (medical devices are permitted)
Cameras
Cans and bottles
Creams, lotions or perfume
Packages, briefcases, backpacks or suitcases
Strollers
Video recorders or any type of recording device