U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, John Kennedy, Jeff Merkley, and Edward Markey have introduced the Traveler Privacy Protection Act. This legislation aims to protect Americans’ privacy by allowing them to opt out of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) facial recognition screenings at airports and preventing misuse of passenger data collected through these scans.
Despite TSA’s claim that its facial scanning is voluntary, many passengers are unaware of their right to opt out. The agency has been criticized for not effectively displaying notices informing travelers of this option at checkpoints.
Senator Marshall emphasized the importance of privacy as a fundamental American liberty: “In no universe should the federal government collect biometric data from Americans without their full, informed consent. The Traveler Privacy Protection Act strengthens safeguards around this sensitive data and brings transparency for travelers.”
Senator Kennedy pointed out the issue with current practices: “The TSA subjects countless law-abiding Americans to excessive facial recognition screenings as they travel, invading passengers’ privacy without even making it clear that they can opt out of the screening.”
Senator Merkley expressed concerns about a potential “national surveillance state,” stating: “Americans have the right to opt out of using TSA’s facial recognition at the airport, and we need to protect that right.”
Senator Markey added his voice against what he termed an unacceptable use of technology by saying: “Passengers should not have to choose between safety and privacy when they travel…I am glad to partner with Senators Merkley and Kennedy on the Traveler Privacy Protection Act.”
The legislation is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Chris Van Hollen.
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