CHICAGO (AP) – The head of the Transportation Security Administration says Congress’ shifting of $34 million is a “good down payment” but the agency needs greater resources to address a shortage of screeners.
Peter Neffenger briefed officials in Chicago on Friday about efforts to address recent delays in getting passengers through airport security. Steps include the immediate deployment of 58 screeners and more canine units for Chicago airports.
Congress provided the TSA the $34 million to let the agency pay overtime to existing staff and hire an extra 768 screeners by June 15. Airlines say lines are long because the TSA is understaffed and that travel is expected to hit a record high this summer.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel called delays unacceptable and promised the city would monitor the TSA’s progress with an “accountability scorecard.”