TSA says its working too hard and that's not fair

Kudos to Monte for  originally posting this on comment board:

It seems the TSA is complaining that since the airlines have started charging for checked luggage,more and more people are carrying on their luggage causing more work for the screeners. 

They say the cost is also rising and it’s not fair that the airlines get to keep all the fees while the TSA has to foot the bill for extra manpower.

They want the airlines to pay more.

And anytime anyone wants the ailrines to pay more it’s going to be passed on the passenger.

If TSA wants more money, they could model themselves after a similar business—the strip joint.

I can just see the rules now:

“Hi, if you’re chosen to go through a physical pat down, please relax and enjoy. We are here for your safety and pleasure. It is customary, after the “pat down” to show your appreciation by stuffing one dollar bills in your screener’s garter belt. 

For a more intimate pat down, private rooms are available.

And please remember, the screener can touch you anywhere he or she wants. Only you can’t touch back.

All major credit cards accepted.”

(Frank II)

Comments

[Monte]

This article was also picked up by Time NewsFeed on CNN Travel.

[Laurie]

TSA's corollary between increased carry on usage, screener workload and airline profits being somehow "unfair" to them is whiney and pathetic. The agency was initially formed to add a layer of vigilance over ALL airline cargo and to sniff out suspects coming into and traveling through the US (for an indeterminant length of time.) Where the baggage is heading, whether in the cargo hold or passenger cabin, does not mitigate its potential danger to flyers and the nation at large. All the figures necessary to inform TSA of ongoing costs are already out there: number of passengers, peak season volume, amount of luggage and its approximate weight, industry costs and inflation rates, etc. Poor long range planning/budget by a constitutionally dubious govern-mental organization doesn't adequately justify their bloat on the taxpayer's dime.