The Transportation Security Administration is rolling back rules regarding shoes at domestic airport security checkpoints. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the change Tuesday.
“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” Noem said in a release. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience. As always, security remains our top priority. Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards. This initiative is just one of many the Trump administration is pursuing to usher in the President’s vision for a new Golden Age of American travel.”
New rule a shoe-in?
News of the rule change began circulating Tuesday, with reports saying the new policy would only be implemented at certain airports, including Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International airport.
ABC News reports a memo went out to TSA staff last week announcing the change.
A CVG official directed questions to TSA.
A TSA spokesperson tells WVXU, "TSA and DHS are always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture. Any potential updates to our security process will be issued through official channels."
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt appeared to confirm the report Tuesday morning on social media platform X. She reposted a post about the alleged change by CBS News senior White House reporter Jennifer Jacobs, adding "Big news from @DHSgov!"
CBS News states, "The change comes amid reports that the TSA has let the security rule expire for fliers going through the standard TSA screening lines."
The article also notes CBS reporters — and other passengers — traveling through Los Angeles International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York Monday night didn't have to remove their shoes.
Passengers with TSA PreCheck already don't have to remove their shoes.
CVG also has Computed Tomography (CT) machines, which means passengers don't need to remove electronics and liquids from bags at the security checkpoint.
The shoe rule was implemented in 2006 after a British man, Richard Reid, attempted to blow up a trans-Atlantic flight with explosives hidden in his shoes in 2001. Reid was sentenced to life in prison in 2003.
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