The U.S. Travel Association is strongly opposing proposed cuts to the Transportation Security Administration workforce.
U.S. Travel president Roger Dow called it a bad idea following recent TSA security lapses during Homeland Security covert testing at some of the nation’s biggest airports.
"In light of the covert tests and its findings, we are concerned that previously agreed to recommendations for staffing levels will not be adequate to address recommendations," Dow said.
A Homeland Security Administration funding bill is being considered by lawmakers which US Travel says would mean a cut of about 600 TSA agents.
"We, therefore, strongly urge that the Committee revisit its FY16 recommendations and find cost savings in other areas to allow funding for security staff to be kept at current levels rather than reduced by some 600 employees," Dow added.
"The U.S. travel industry, which generates $2.1 trillion in economic output, is an engine that is driving job creation across the United States, and is a top 10 employer in 49 states and the District of Columbia. One-in-nine American jobs — nearly 15 million jobs across the country — is supported by the travel industry,"
