The controversy over Tampa International Airport’s push to privatize its airport security continued as the union representing Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees filed suit in federal court to demand documents detailing the timing and rationale behind the initiative, known as TSA Gold+.
Union Seeks Transparency
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) submitted a Freedom of Information Act request in May but received no records or determination on its request. AFGE General Counsel Rushab Sanghvi stated that the union wants to get the full truth behind TSA Gold+.
US Representative Kathy Castor (D–Tampa) agreed, coming out against the proposals in a letter to Tampa International and the Hillsborough County Airports Authority. Castor expressed concerns that private contractors may cut corners on training, wages, and benefits, leading to fatigue and reduced vigilance.
Tampa International Airport directed media to the TSA for more on the specifics of the program, but the TSA has not replied to repeated requests for comment.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
