TSA advances ‘GoldPlus’ privatization plan

The Transportation Security Administration has quietly been pitching airports and industry on a privatization program that would represent a significant overhaul in how TSA’s private security screening program works today.

The concept, called “TSA GoldPlus,” would involve private contractors managing both the employees and the technology that screen airline passengers and luggage for banned items and other security threats. Meanwhile, TSA itself would provide “oversight” to ensure the systems meet federal security standards, according to briefing materials.

TSA has been briefing larger airports on the concept in recent months, according to multiple industry sources. That comes as the agency’s budget request suggests TSA is looking to expand privatization to only the smallest U.S. airports in the near term.

Read more at Federal News Network