Senator calls for TSA to reinstate shoes-off security policy

Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., has called on the Transportation Security Administration to reimplement its former shoes-off policy at airports. She criticized the TSA’s decision to end the requirement last summer, calling it a reckless move that could jeopardize security, according to a letter she sent to Acting TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill.

Duckworth argued that the policy change, implemented by former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, was made without adequate consultation and has left a potential security gap. She emphasized that the seven-month period since the policy was scrapped has increased risks of terrorists smuggling dangerous items onto aircraft.

The senator’s concerns follow a classified watchdog report revealing that TSA scanners cannot effectively screen shoes. Duckworth said the inspector general identified the issue as urgent, but no corrective action was taken, which she described as outrageous and dangerous to travelers.

Duckworth also claimed that the TSA’s inaction may violate federal law, noting the agency missed a legally mandated 90-day deadline to outline corrective steps after receiving the watchdog’s report. She criticized Noem’s decision as a failure of leadership and accused her of prioritizing politics over security.

The shoes-off screening policy was first introduced in 2006 but was discontinued last summer, with officials citing improved technology and efficiency. Duckworth said the move to remove the requirement was a gamble with public safety, especially given reports of heightened threats in the U.S., including increased risks linked to Iran, as assessed by DHS.

She also noted that Noem was replaced last month by DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, and called for the TSA to act swiftly to restore the shoes-off policy to protect travelers and ensure security standards are maintained.

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