Thompson Says Bill Would Keep TSA "In Check"

WASHINGTON, D.C.--Cong. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) said last week that he did not approve of the TSA's decision to allow small knives on airline flights and he was not alone. Thompson, though, who represents the Mississippi Delta in Washington, has pull as the ranking Memeber of the House Committee on Homeland Security, and has come up with an idea to keep the TSA "in check", he said.

He, along with other democrat lawmakers, are attempting to resurrect the Aviation Security Advisory Committee, a government agency originally created in 1989 following the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing. Since that time, the committee has gone inactive, but reapplied for its charter in 2011.

Not only would House Bill 1204 revive the committee, but would authorize it into law officially and force the TSA to consult with the body before making such security decisions.

"The recent lapse in policy making shows that we need a proper dialogue on creating security policy more than ever," said Thompson.

It was not clear from Thompson's information, or from the bill who would have final say on those security matters after the committee is authorized.

"When developing policies that affect millions of passengers and frontline workers, we must make sure that any impact is taken into account. This bill will strengthen the process at TSA to ensure the security and safety of the flying public and mitigate ever-present terrorist threats."