Bill enables TSA passenger temperature screenings

A trio of lawmakers have introduced a bill they said requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to conduct a trial program to check passenger temperatures before advancing through airport security.

Reps. Ralph Norman (R-SC), Ted Budd (R-NC) and John Larson (D-CT) said the TSA would minimally identify 10 domestic airports for the screening program, as well as technology necessary to safely perform temperature screenings on passengers at those facilities.

“As we work to get our nation back on its feet, we must continue to identify ways to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” Norman said. “Air travel poses unique challenges on this front, and it’s important to study and understand how TSA checkpoints might play a role in our fight against this and future pandemics. I want to thank Congressman Budd and Congressman Larson for their insight and co-sponsorship of this important bill.”

Passengers with temperatures exceeding the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidance constituting a fever would not be permitted through security since a fever is one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19.

“Reopening America should be the top priority of our government,” Budd said. “Making sure air travelers are healthy enough to fly is a common-sense way to boost passenger confidence and jumpstart economic activity. That’s how we can stop the spread of the virus and continue a great American comeback.”