TSA Recommends Having Armed Law Enforcement At Airport Security Checkpoints
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The Transportation Security Administration Wednesday released a report outlining several significant changes to improve security at airports, including having armed law enforcement at checkpoints and ticket counters during peak travel times.
The full report outlines a comprehensive review of policies, procedures and operations following the Nov. 1, 2013 shooting at Los Angeles International Airport when TSA Officer Gerardo Hernandez was killed and three others were injured.
"Following the incident at LAX last year, which shocked and saddened us all, I ordered a comprehensive review of policies and procedures at LAX and airports across the country," TSA Administrator John S. Pistole said. "The report released today outlines the actions TSA took immediately following the shooting and new procedures to enhance the safety and security of TSA employees nationwide, especially those who work on the frontlines each and every day to protect the traveling public."
The reported includes the results of working groups, both internally and externally, that gave extensive feedback about what actions need to be taken.
"We sought the input of all TSA employees through a variety of mechanisms such as town hall meetings and the online Idea Factory. Ideas were submitted from all levels of the organization, to include our frontline officers and Federal Security Directors," Pistole said. "Many of these ideas were endorsed and incorporated into our action plan. We continue to welcome stakeholder and workforce feedback to improve safety and security at airports nationwide."
Other changes outlined include mandatory active-shooter training and exercises for TSA employees, testing and improving equipment and technology, and ensuring that all airports have explicit maximum response times. For the full report, click here.
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