What powers do TSA agents have?

TSA officers cannot arrest a passenger. They also do not carry any weapons and are not allowed to use force as a part of their duties. They simply screen for security reasons and if a situation arises, they must contact the local law enforcement.

Can TSA force you to strip?

TSA agents cannot strip search you. In fact, “you have the right to refuse to take off anything with the exception of outer wear,” said Braden Perry, a regulatory and enforcement attorney who formerly worked for a federal agency.

What can you not do at airport security?

12 Things You Should Never Do in an Airport Security Line

• Don’t joke about bombs or anything illegal.
• Don’t try to hide something that shouldn’t be on the plane.
• Don’t smuggle too much liquid through the security line.
• Don’t bring a gun.
• Don’t re-pack.
• Don’t get nervous if officers pull you out of line for questioning.

Are TSA agents armed?

TSA officers do not carry firearms, billy clubs, mace, stun guns or any other type of weapon. Nor do TSA officers carry handcuffs. They are not authorized to use force in the performance of their duties.

What law gives TSA authority?

Congress agreed, and authorized the creation of the TSA in the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, which was signed into law by President George W. Bush on November 19, 2001.

Can I talk back to TSA?

You can send an email directly to the TSA (tsa.gov/contact-center/form/complaints). You’ll want to select the category “Professionalism/Customer Service” when you do. Make sure you note other details, such as the name of the agent and the time and the terminal where the screening took place.

Can I refuse a TSA pat-down?

Generally speaking, a passenger may not refuse the pat down search. The only portion of the airport screening measures that can be refused is the scanning process. If a passenger refuses both the scan and the pat down, the possible consequence will likely be ejection from the airport.

Can TSA touch you?

While pat-down searches allow TSOs to physically touch your body, there are very specific guidelines and boundaries that they must follow, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that TSO’s are rigorously trained to maintain the highest levels of professionalism.