I have yet to see a compelling argument that explains the correlation between salary and security. Will placing these individuals on the federal payroll improve their vision, enhance their common sense, or increase their dedication to their duties? I think not. I believe that the better solution lies in a variation of the European model.

• Have federal supervisors with the ability to immediately suspend those that are not performing according to standard.
• Set a minimum standard (read higher) wage for screeners that encourages longevity.
• Establish a bonus system that rewards the discovery of manifestly dangerous items, e.g. guns & knives.
• Establish a uniform set of standards for all security checkpoints.

I believe the key is having a fed supervisor on the spot to monitor the area and to be ultimately responsible for security. However, under any future regime, I am 100% certain that failures will occur and that "the other side" will use them as an example that they were actually correct. How can I be so certain? All involve HUMANS! Another thing of which I am certain: whichever way the federalization question goes, this thread will rise like Lazarus when something does happen.

There is one phrase that I never want to hear at a security checkpoint: "It's good enough for government work."

CWPFLY