Pappas: Members of Congress Shouldn’t Be Allowed to Cut the Line at TSA

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, is strongly opposing an amendment offered by Senator Ted Cruz to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization legislation that would allow members of Congress and other “political VIPs” to get special privileges including police escorts through airport terminals and expedited private security screenings. 

“It is unacceptable for members of Congress or anyone in the public trust to expect special treatment of any kind, and that includes cutting the line at TSA to go ahead of travelers waiting for security screenings,” said Congressman Pappas. “There are critical priorities that must be addressed by reauthorizing the FAA this year, including protecting public safety, improving the travel experience for Granite Staters, and maintaining American leadership and innovation in aviation. Letting members of Congress, cabinet officials, and other individuals cut the line and get special treatment at airports should not be part of this legislation. I helped craft and voted to pass the bipartisan FAA reauthorization bill through the House last summer, and I remain committed to reconciling the differences between the House and Senate versions, ensuring that this provision is struck from the bill, and that the final version truly addresses the needs of the traveling public.”

Background:

Last summer, Pappas helped pass a bipartisan package to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration through 2028. Pappas helped craft this package on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to ensure provisions are included to protect public safety, improve the travel experience, and maintain American leadership and innovation in aviation.