Actually, I think there is another explanation ... which doesn't come across as nearly as sinister as some of the other theories suggested here.

We've heard any number of times in different threads here that TSA is "merely" a renter of its space in the airport --- and because of that status, it doesn't have full control of the screening process. Consider:

• TSA won't screen TSOs everytime they enter/leave the checkpoint area, and won't subject them to the same LGA restrictions as passengers, because in many cases their break areas are outside the sterile area, and since they're not in complete control, they can't require a break area for TSOs inside the sterile area.
• TSA can't install more physical space for passengers to disassemble themselves before the checkpoint, and reassemble themselves after the checkpoint, because they're not in complete control of how much, and what kind, of space they're given at the airport.
• During the inevitable discussions about whether or not there ought to be a separate line for first-class passengers feeding into the TDC position at the checkpoint, we're told that TSA's rental space begins at the TDC position, and since they're not in complete control, they can't control whether or not the airlines create separate lines for first-class passengers.

I think that TSA's desire for "complete control" might simply be a desire to have complete control over its physical space at the airports --- not merely the same (lack) control given to any other airport tenant.

Of course, the other theories promoted here could just as easily be true. I'm not saying whether or not my theory is more or less likely ... just pointing out an alternative theory that isn't quite as Orwellian.

jkhuggins you may be correct, but when it comes to TSA. The way they behave makes us think worst case scenario being the outcome of any changes they decide to come up with.

I'll just focus on two of the data points...

Which will result in an increase of complaints by passengers that items "have gone missing" from their checked luggage (and imho, an increase in baggage handlers and/or TSO's getting arrested fro stealing from pax luggage)

Something that actually makes sense ^

You obviously don't understand how TSA operates. From the very beginning, their view of their authority is that it is what TSA deems it to be - until that time that the courts rein them in.

In short, make sure WE don't suffer in the budget cuts to balance the budget. We want a PERMANENT flow to our nipple! NOW!

In defense of some police officers, I report my screening experience at FLG just before New Year's Eve.

The TSO spotted my gifts of valuable Navajo jewelry I was carrying home, and announced she had to re-screen my "suspicious items" - 2 jewelry boxes and my wallet. I believe her intent was to steal them once they were out of my sight behind the X-ray.

I asked the police officer standing at the CP if he would please supervise the process to protect me from having my family's Christmas gifts stolen. He watched her closely through each step and when the bin came out of the X-ray, he made her bring me the bin and my suitcase so I could check to be sure all my items were there, which they were.

I thanked the officer and sent an email to the Chief of Police commending the officer for his diligence. At least some police officers are willing to protect the pax from TSA transgressions.

Congress should call Napolitano on the carpet for the number of felonies committed by employees of the agency. Surely they can keep people with no self discipline off the front lines with passengers.

I'd rather they don't exist in the agency at all, but if they're going to allow felonious behavior (by virtue of ignoring it), I want them where I can see them. Not behind the scenes rifling through my bags at will!

No question. That is the perfect solution. Just "defund" the damned circus. And use the existence of a "continuing criminal enterprise" as the excuse.

Unless they're packing guns or tasers, they can give them all the law enforcement status Pistole's little heart desires, but outside of the sterile area, I will continue to ignore them, including any attempt to detain or arrest me unless they have the hardware to do it.

Inside the sterile area, I will simply refuse to answer their questions without a lawyer present - since they are law enforcement, any statement I make could be the basis for self-incrimination.

Giving these moronic goons law enforcement authority will not go over well - seriously, could you imagine these people being given actual authority??

I just don't see it happening. Pansies in Congress might talk the talk publicly, but outside of the rare idiot like Peter King, I don't think anyone agrees that TSA people have the mental capability or qualifications to assume that sort of authority.

"The dumber they are, the more they need power".

There's an idea! Declare TSA a "continuing criminal enterprise" and prosecute the lot of them under RICO.

Blast you ... because of your idea, if this becomes policy, I'll be spending weekends scouring garage sales for used suitcases.

Don't you have a dozen in the garage and a couple under the bed like we do?

Probably, but I bet they all exceed the current dimensional limitations.