03/13: Unionization of TSA Screeners Not a Good Thing
Posted by: athomas
Since the creation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), there has been a strong move to unionize the more than 45,000 screeners who work at the nation's airports. The new Democratic majority Congress is working hard to provide front-line security personnel with the right to collective bargaining. From a security point-of-view, is this a good thing?
The short answer is no.
The job of aviation security is a deadly business. Accountability of screener performance must be at the foundation of that function. In many cases, however, unionization pushes back on accountability in favor of worker's rights. I fear that would be true at TSA as well.
Now don't think that I am anti-union and against collective bargaining. I BELONG TO A UNION. SO DOES MY WIFE. AND MY MOTHER!
In many industries, unions are very much needed. However, the dynamic, ever-changing environment of aviation security is not one of them. America would not be well served if TSA screeners became members of a union.
The short answer is no.
The job of aviation security is a deadly business. Accountability of screener performance must be at the foundation of that function. In many cases, however, unionization pushes back on accountability in favor of worker's rights. I fear that would be true at TSA as well.
Now don't think that I am anti-union and against collective bargaining. I BELONG TO A UNION. SO DOES MY WIFE. AND MY MOTHER!
In many industries, unions are very much needed. However, the dynamic, ever-changing environment of aviation security is not one of them. America would not be well served if TSA screeners became members of a union.
