Official FAA bill text release or congressional records

14 Senators Push for Facial Recognition Limits in FAA Bill Over Privacy

May 7, 2024, 06:00 PM

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, including Sen. Jeff Merkley, is advocating for restrictions on the use of facial recognition technology at TSA checkpoints in airports, citing concerns over privacy and civil liberties. The senators are urging that these restrictions be included in the upcoming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) re-authorization bill. They argue that the TSA's use of this technology lacks sufficient oversight and transparency, particularly noting that travelers are often unaware they can opt out of facial scans. The call for action is supported by a letter from 14 senators, emphasizing the need for rigorous congressional oversight before further deployment of these tools.