Sen. Jeff Merkley, a privacy advocate in the Senate, is pushing to limit the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) use of facial recognition technology at airports. This move has sparked concerns from both the agency and industry regarding airport security and potential longer wait times for travelers.
If Merkley’s proposed measure is adopted, it could significantly impact the TSA’s use of facial recognition technology at airports. The senator believes that there are serious privacy concerns associated with the widespread use of this technology and wants to ensure that travelers’ rights are protected. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between privacy rights and security measures within the realm of aviation security.
Merkley is planning to include language in a comprehensive aviation bill being considered by the Senate this week that would limit the TSA’s ability to utilize facial recognition for verifying traveler identities. The TSA argues that this technology is more efficient and secure compared to traditional ID checks conducted by checkpoint officers. However, Merkley believes that there are serious privacy concerns associated with the widespread use of this technology and wants to ensure that travelers’ rights are protected.
