Congresswoman Waters Welcomes TSA Decision to Delay Knife Policy

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) welcomed the announcement by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to delay implementation of a new policy allowing passengers to carry certain knives and sporting equipment onboard airplanes. The policy would have gone into effect on Thursday, April 25, 2013. Congresswoman Waters were one of 133 Members of Congress who signed a letter sent to TSA Administrator John Pistole asking for the decision to be reversed:

"This decision by the Transportation Security Administration to delay its knife policy change is a step in the right direction. TSA initially made this decision without any formal consultation with the Aviation Security Advisory Committee and stakeholders who would be most impacted by the policy. However, this temporary delay doesn't go far enough."On September 11, 2001, our lives were changed forever and we will never forget the horror of that day. This is a dangerous policy change that defies logic, and it is not necessary for TSA to go back to the drawing board to make a common-sense decision. Knives are not needed on airplanes and should be banned permanently.

"Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located in my Congressional District. It is the sixth busiest airport in the world and third in the United States. Earlier this month, I joined flight attendants, pilots, air marshals, and law enforcement at LAX to oppose this policy change. The safety and security of the people who work in and pass through LAX is of paramount importance.

"According to a recent survey, 73% of Americans do not want pocket knives allowed in airplane cabins. I urge TSA to continue the current policy, which bars all knives in airline passenger cabins."

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