S.1180 - Abolish TSA Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1180, the Abolish TSA Act of 2025, proposes to eliminate the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) within three years of the Act's enactment. It mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a reorganization plan, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, to transfer aviation security activities to private screening companies and establish an Office of Aviation Security Oversight within the FAA. The bill also requires periodic reports to Congress on the progress of the reorganization.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the TSA would be abolished, and airport security would be privatized. An Office of Aviation Security Oversight would be established within the FAA to regulate aviation security. The Department of Transportation would assume responsibility for surface transportation security functions previously handled by the TSA.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for increased cost-efficiency through privatization.
- Possible reduction in government bureaucracy.
- Increased flexibility and innovation in security measures through private sector involvement.
- Focus of government oversight on regulation rather than direct operation.
- Potential for improved customer service at airports due to market competition.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential decrease in security standards due to the profit motive of private companies.
- Risk of job losses for TSA employees.
- Possible inconsistencies in security procedures across different airports.
- Challenges in ensuring adequate oversight and regulation of private security companies.
- Potential for increased costs for travelers if private companies raise fees.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on whether the privatization of security functions and the transfer of responsibilities align with the federal government's powers related to interstate commerce and national security. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the common defense. The establishment of the TSA was originally justified under these powers following 9/11. The proposed abolition and privatization must still ensure adequate security measures are in place to align with the federal government's responsibility for national security.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).