Member of the Aviation Fighter Council and the California chapter of the United States Government Employees Union of America Support suggestions.
To address issues of equity and fairness in airport security screening procedures, Members of the Air Force Council and an affiliate of the American Union of Government Employees in California have proposed a bill aimed at expanding Clear, a service that allows travelers to bypass security screening areas without incurring fees.
The proposed legislation passed a meeting of the House Transportation Committee. By an 8-4 vote, members aimed to temporarily halt Clear's expansion within the state's airports. By referring to the law It must be approved by both the California House of Representatives and the California House of Representatives. It also includes Governor Gavin Newsom's signature.
Clear is a state-owned company that provides members quick access to security checkpoints at airports and entertainment venues for an annual fee of $189. Members can verify their identity through biometric scanning, such as physical recognition. face or fingerprint To eliminate the need to bring identification to a security clearance agent crossing TSA security screening areas, immediately after identity verification, Clear members will be directed to the front of the security line. TSA security by a company representative
However, Clear's recognition of the privileges offered to its members has drawn criticism from some travelers, who argue that it creates a difference between those who can pay for the service and those who cannot.
Party member Josh Newman Democracy and the bill's supporters spoke of the importance of providing security checks at airports, stating: “When we talk about conducting security checks at airports, The quality of the experience should not depend on the traveler's income or affordability.”
The proposed legislation does not aim to completely remove Clear, but its goal is to redress the injustice felt by requesting a dedicated security line for Clear members and travelers in general. This approach aims to avoid the frustrations that regular travelers feel while still allowing Clear members to continue to enjoy fast service.
Support came from various perspectives, including the Pilots' Association and California's union and government branches. US states from the TSA and businesses like Delta support this bill.
Clear highlighted facts the state has made known, such as creating jobs, serving nearly 1 million Californians and generating revenue for the state's airports. The company has emphasized contracting with partner agencies and governments to enhance the security experience for all travelers.
However, there are also concerns about the potential financial impact on the airport if Clear were to face restrictions. A legislative analysis conducted by the California House of Representatives Transportation Committee determined that Airports may try to source lost revenue from other sources, such as car rental companies or restaurant vendors.
But the analysis acknowledged the challenge of providing TSA security clearance and oversight functions because TSA operations are controlled by the U.S. government, while Clear may have limited influence over TSA decisions. United States government But it could encourage the use of additional TSA funding to support additional lines of control and security screeners.
When draft legislation proceeds in the community process Those involved, both publishers and opponents, are also having discussions to resolve the issue and find a balanced solution to the issues related to providing rapid security screening services at airports.