TSA Agents At Airport Security Are Not Allowed To Do This

A constant stream of shaken passengers appearing on the news makes it seem like the TSA has unlimited power. Many of these reports are followed by apologies from official TSA representatives. These apologies prove that the TSA can go too far. There are rules. Whether everyone is aware of these rules or not is the question. At least the public subject to the actions of TSA agents can learn the difference between what’s allowed and what isn’t to protect themselves.

The TSA does serve an important purpose at airports. Such as stopping smugglers from sneaking bizarre and forbidden items across borders. Though in the case of law-abiding citizens, their power shouldn’t stretch so far. Let’s take a look at some of the limitations meant to ensure the average passenger is treated with respect.

10 Stop Anyone From Filming

Rules on TSA.gov explain that people are allowed to film and take photos of anything they want at security checkpoints. Videos of people having their cell phones snatched and footage erased show that even TSA agents aren’t aware of some of the rules they must follow.

9 Confiscate Breast Milk Even When Oversized

Necessary liquids like breastmilk and medications are allowed to surpass the 100 mL limit, according to the TSA site. Packing priorities for new moms headed on flights should include enough breastmilk or formula to last the trip. These items may undergo extra screening just to be safe, but TSA technically can't confiscate the 'excess' liquid.

8 Demand The Passwords Of Confiscated Electronics

U.S. citizens and permanent residents can’t be barred from reentry because they refuse to give up their passwords. The ACLU says that doesn’t apply to anyone and traveling on a visa. If the password is forfeited or the device is unprotected, the TSA can download all files on the spot.

7 Force People To Go Through The Body Scanner

Body scanners are optional. This information isn’t disclosed to streamline the process. Anyone can request a pat-down instead. It’s slower and more intrusive, but the radiation-wary will prefer it. Those who choose speed don’t need to worry since the amount of radiation emitted by body scanners is negligible.

6 They Have No Right To Detain Customers

The ACLU confirms that TSA agents don’t possess the power to arrest anyone on their own. Airport law enforcement officers have to be called down for that. Officers aren’t called in for just any non-criminal annoyance either. The situation has to escalate before reinforcements are required.

5 Include Head Coverings In Pat-Downs

TSA.gov claims that women wearing head coverings can request self-conducted pat-downs. Footage shows an officer patting down a Muslim woman's head covering anyway. This occurs when the self-conducted pat-down is unsuccessful. In any case, an officer of the same gender is guaranteed.

4 Demand Citizens Answer Questions Unrelated To Identity

Questions about name and nationality are fair game. Asking about religion or political opinions is out of line. Some passengers allege they receive these inappropriate questions due to illegal profiling anyway. It’s often impossible to prove these claims since most people don’t realize they’re allowed to film.

3 Request The Removal Of Any Clothing Beyond Outer Wear

TSA representatives have told both the Washington Examiner and PRI that strip-searching “is against their policies.” Just asking a man to remove his shirt is out of the ordinary. Several people say that TSA agents demanded they undress anyway. The privacy of these alleged strip searches complicates lawsuits.

2 Remove Even Outer Wear From Children

Children under the age of 13 get to keep their shoes, jackets, and hats. TSA.gov states they also get more than one chance to pass the metal detector to avoid pat-downs. Babies carried in slings get to stay put too, unless the metal detector goes off.

1 Require The Removal Of Turbans

Passengers who wore turbans to security checkpoints were required to remove them up until 2007 when the rules changed, according to the Huffington Post. TSA agents may still ask, but passengers can decline. Turbans are only to be removed if a self-conducted pat-down or swab test fails.

Next: TSA Backtracks On Security Cutbacks Report, Says Screenings To Continue