TSA union sues over privatization program TPA opted into
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A union representing Transportation Security Administration employees is suing the agency over documents related to its new Gold+ program, which Tampa International Airport has opted into.
Why it matters: The TSA's effort to privatize airport security screening could affect more than 700 employees at Tampa International, resulting in the loss of benefits and lower salaries.
- The new program comes after a government shutdown disrupted airports across the U.S. earlier this year and is part of President Trump's broader push to shrink the TSA.
Driving the news: The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents TSA employees nationwide, filed a Freedom of Information Act request in May seeking records on the rollout of the Gold+ program.
- But nearly three months later, the union says it hasn't received any of the requested records. News of the program surfaced only after a flier was found at Orlando International Airport, WUSF reports.
- The lawsuit is the latest pushback against the program. U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Tampa) has also urged Tampa International to reverse its privatization plans, accusing the airport of putting "profit above people."
Zoom in: Tampa International is among the first airports in the country to opt into the TSA's new Gold+ program. Under the program, a private contractor manages passenger screening under TSA oversight.
- Tampa International hopes to complete the transition by May 2027.
- TSA employees at the airport will have the option to work with the private company, relocate to another airport, or, if eligible, retire.
Between the lines: Private airport screening isn't new. The Gold+ program builds upon the TSA's existing Screening Partnership Program, which operates at 20 airports across the U.S.
- Sarasota Bradenton International Airport has operated under that program for more than a decade, according to the Tampa Bay Business Journal. Orlando Sanford International Airport is also in the program.