TSA is removing chairs from travel document checker podiums at airport security entrances, CNN reported on Tuesday, Sept. 29. The change has already started at most commercial airports, according to the American Federation of Government Employees, which represents TSA screeners.
The union said it learned about the decision from its members and criticized the move as a "disregard for workers' rights and safety."
"These chairs serve as basic ergonomic and safety support for officers that stand and walk on hard surfaces all day," AFGE Council 100 said in a statement. "TSA is treating this matter like it is a privilege - it is not; it is basic safety and common decency for the workforce."
TSA defended the new policy, saying document checkers are often the first security officers travelers interact with at checkpoints.
"This welcome change reinforces both our security posture and our commitment to hospitality by having these officers on their feet and alert," TSA said in a statement. "All officers must meet fitness for duty requirements to be capable of performing their vital national security function while simultaneously creating a welcoming and professional environment for travelers."
The union said the chairs provide support for officers who spend most of their shifts standing and walking on hard surfaces. One union leader told CNN that AFGE and its local chapters weren't formally notified before the chairs started being removed.
The change comes nearly two months after David Cummins was confirmed as TSA administrator. He has since launched Horizon 25, an initiative to make changes before the agency's 25th anniversary in November.
The program includes expanding TSA PreCheck, introducing new technology, privatizing some checkpoints, and "improving the passenger experience."
"TSA does not have to choose between a secure checkpoint, an efficient checkpoint, and an elevated passenger experience," Cummins said in announcing the initiative.
Nearly 50,000 TSA agents work at about 440 airports nationwide, according to the agency.
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
