Napolitano: Changing Perceptions Of TSA Patdowns

by John Roberts

As the naked body scanners and invasive patdowns of air travel patrons become more common, so do the complaints.

New security measures adopted by the TSA and endorsed by homeland security secretary Janet Napolitano have people protesting that it violates their right against unreasonable search. Airlines worldwide are also concerned with extra restrictions on an already struggling industry.

At Monday’s press conference, Janet Napolitano explained the real problem. “This has simply been a communication problem. If passengers really knew what was going on here, they would be all for people grabbing their privates.”

This continues a theme from the Obama administration of communication being at the heart of these issues as opposed to the policies themselves.

“We need to do a better job of setting the mood,” Napolitano continued. ”At airport security areas we are going to start dimming the lights a bit. We will also be playing Kenny G music softly. While escorting passengers to the renamed “Happy Area”, TSA security will be required to talk a little bit about themselves. I think it will really be an enjoyable experience.”

Other changes that are expected are renaming security officers ‘escorts’, allowing passengers to select their own escort from a lineup while holding a picture of their own naked body scan, the option of having the escort feed them fruit while they perform the patdown for an extra fee.

Homeland Security anticipates that the changes will more than make up for the decreased air travel since the new policies were instituted.

link: http://www.narf.tv/2010/11/napolitano-changing-perceptions-of-tsa-p...