August 28, 2009 NPR on Lipinski's luggage bill
You can listen here to an NPR story on the problem of oversized carry-on bags and one possible solution - Congressman Lipinski’s luggage bill. Here’s what ohmygov.com thinks of it:
Trying to cut down on carry-on clutter is definitely a legitimate concern for anyone who regularly travels by air; the question is just whether or not it is a legitimate concern for congress. The greatest concern, especially at times like these, might just be how much this whole plan would cost. Lipinski’s bill would require TSA representatives to inspect and check any baggage that would exceed the federally mandated regulations, all at taxpayer expense of course.
Most people can agree that the waiting involved with boarding a flight is already interminable, adding on the layer of federal agents inspecting and checking baggage would probably result in more stops and starts than a Minnesota recount. In the wake of 9/11, most travelers embraced the added security as “the price you pay” for feeling and being safe on a commercial airliner, but there is such a thing as overkill. Lipinski’s bill would surely qualify for that label. - more here
Frank@OBOW
Cast your vote for or against the Lipinksi bill here.
Reader Comments (5)
Well, the airlines sure aren't enforcing the rules.
That's certainly true, and if you listen to the NPR piece you'll hear some airline guy saying they're not really worried about it. Giving the TSA more power sounds bad though.
TSA has enough power (too much normal power plus too much tolerated abuse of power) as is. Enforcing luggage restrictions through TSA is frankly stupid. This Lipinski dude can't be very bright. In 99.9% of oversize luggage you won't find terrorist devices but the kitchen sink and Blahniks that some mom considered necessary. So this will detract from the original security mission - not that the current system or search has much use - and make things slower and more costly. A huge OUCH!
If the airlines really wanted to cut down on carry-on luggage, heyd charge for carry-on and let checked baggage go for free.
Perish the thought!