TSA Pat-Downs: Should TSA Change its Security Procedures?
Nov. 22, 2010— -- The Transportation and Security Administration now says it will consider modifying the new security procedures that some say cross the line, including the controversial new pat-down that requires agents to check areas near passengers' groins.
On "Good Morning America" today, TSA Administrator John Pistole said that his agency is "open" to modifying the procedures, though he has defended the procedures in the past against passengers' complaints.
"The bottom line is, we are always adapting and adjusting prior protocols in view of the intelligence and in view of the latest information we have on how the terrorists are trying to kill our people on planes," Pistole said. "If that means we need to adjust the procedures, then of course we're open to that."
The move comes as an increasing number of travelers and organizations have expressed indignation over the new procedures.
The Business Travel Coalition has announced its opposition, urging the TSA, airlines, and airports to conduct a full review of the policy that includes full-body scanners and more invasive pat-downs.
"The deployment of full-body scanners without a formal public comment process and sufficient medical and scientific vetting is one of the worst TSA abuses of authority since its creation," wrote BTC Chairman Kevin Mitchell.
Further fueling the outrage are photos and videos of passengers going through the process, including elderly passengers and even children. The TSA says that children 12 and under receive a modified pat-down.
Tonight on "World News with Diane Sawyer," ABC News will release a poll that should shed light on what the American people think of the new TSA procedures as well as security alternatives like profiling.
But until then, we want to hear from you: Should the TSA modify its pat-down procedures, and if so, how?
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