Screening Partnership Program

Three US airports (Des Moines, Charleston, and Tampa) will adopt TSA Gold+, a public-private partnership replacing TSA agents with private contractors to improve efficiency. The program follows past government shutdowns that caused TSA staffing shortages and long wait times, contrasting with airports using private screeners under the Screening Partnership Program (SPP). The union AFGE criticized the move, arguing it risks safety and jobs.

Tampa International Airport will privatize most TSA operations under the TSA Gold+ program, a public-private partnership where a private company will manage security screening while the TSA retains oversight. The transition is scheduled for May 31, 2027, and aims to reduce risks from federal funding lapses and enhance customer experience through new technology. Employees face job uncertainties, with some retiring early due to the change.

Trump's nominee for TSA leadership, David Cummins, defended the private airport screening program as 'pro-worker' during his Senate hearing, addressing concerns about workforce threats. He pledged to prioritize TSA officers and visit airports to reassure employees amid staffing and morale challenges stemming from a recent government shutdown.

President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Transportation Security Administration, David Cummins, defended the Screening Partnership Program (SPP), calling it 'pro-worker' and addressing concerns about expanding private airport screening. He emphasized protecting TSA employees amid staffing challenges and past government shutdowns, while acknowledging the need to transform the agency.

House Republicans are blocking the TSA's new $45 ConfirmID fee for travelers without REAL ID or accepted identification through their fiscal 2027 Homeland Security spending bill. The bill prohibits the fee, citing lack of statutory authority and higher costs compared to the previous free system, while also proposing funding cuts and increased use of private security partnerships.

The TSA is launching a new 'Gold+' program to expand private security screening at airports, building on the existing Screening Partnership Program where 20 U.S. airports currently employ private security screeners instead of federal workers.