Overview
Title
Extension of Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Screening Partnership Program
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The TSA wants to know what people think about its plan that lets airports choose if they want private companies, instead of government workers, to do security checks. They want to make sure the information they collect is useful and easy to understand, and they want to find out how to make the process better by May 22, 2025.
Summary AI
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has asked for public comments on its application process for airport operators interested in using private companies for passenger and property screening instead of Federal employees. This request is to extend the already approved collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act. TSA is seeking feedback on whether the information requested is necessary, if the estimated burden is accurate, and how to improve the process. Comments are due by May 22, 2025.
Abstract
This notice announces that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has forwarded the Information Collection Request (ICR), Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number 1652-0064, abstracted below to OMB for review and approval of an extension of the currently approved collection under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The ICR describes the nature of the information collection and its expected burden. The collection involves an application completed by airport operators interested in using a qualified private screening company to perform security screening functions under a contract entered into with TSA instead of Federal employees.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register involves an announcement by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regarding an extension of an Information Collection Request (ICR) under the Paperwork Reduction Act. This request pertains to the Screening Partnership Program, which allows airport operators to use private companies for security screenings rather than relying solely on federal employees.
Overview of the Document
This request from TSA seeks public comments on the burden and utility of the information collected from airport operators who wish to participate in the Screening Partnership Program. TSA aims to assess if the collection of information is practical and does not compromise security or effectiveness. The period for public comment is open until May 22, 2025. TSA invites feedback on several fronts, such as the necessity of information collected, estimate accuracy of the burden, and possible methods to enhance clarity and minimize the information collection burden.
Issues and Concerns
A notable issue within the document is the lack of clarity on the criteria TSA uses to approve or reject applications from airport operators. This absence of explicit guidelines might lead to ambiguity in decision-making processes and create uncertainty for applicants. Additionally, the document suggests an estimated annual burden of only 0.50 hours, which could appear overly optimistic or unrealistic, necessitating further explanation on what this burden entails.
The process for submitting comments involves navigating to a specific government webpage, which might deter or confuse individuals wanting to participate in providing feedback. Streamlining the process or offering clearer directions could facilitate broader public participation.
Impact on the Public
In general, the document's impact on the public hinges on maintaining aviation security while balancing efficient operational practices at airports. The opportunity for airport operators to use private screening could potentially streamline operations and enhance customer service experiences. However, if the information collection and approval criteria are not clearly defined and communicated, it could result in inconsistent application and approval processes.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For airport operators, this document holds significant importance. Participating in the Screening Partnership Program could lead to improved flexibility and possibly better security practices adjusted to the specific needs of an airport. However, uncertainties in application approval policies could deter some operators from applying, thereby limiting participation in the program.
Private screening companies could benefit positively from a clear and efficient application process, as it would provide them with business opportunities to partner with airports under the guidelines established by TSA. Conversely, if the perceived burden of applying is too high or if the timeframe for approval is extensive, these companies could face challenges in expanding their operations.
Overall, the notice represents a governmental effort to solicit public input on a process that potentially affects the efficiency and security of airport operations, with clear-cut communication of requirements and a simplified comment submission process being pivotal to its success.
Issues
• The document does not provide detailed information on the criteria TSA uses to approve or deny applications from airport operators for the Screening Partnership Program, potentially leading to ambiguity in decision-making processes.
• The document abstract mentions the expected burden but does not fully explain what constitutes this burden for airport operators, which could result in confusion or misinterpretation.
• The notice indicates an estimated annual burden of 0.50 hours, which may seem unrealistic or overly optimistic, suggesting a need for clarification or additional context.
• The process for submitting comments appears to be somewhat complex, requiring navigation to a specific page on a government site. This could act as a barrier to public participation and needs simplification or clearer instructions.