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January 31, 2013

TSA Passenger Screening Canine Teams Need Validation and Proper Assessment

(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the below statement in response to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) Passenger Screening Canine teams. The report is entitled "TSA Explosives Detection Canine Program: Actions Needed to Analyze Data and Ensure Canine Teams Are Effectively Utilized".

"TSA has not determined whether Passenger Screening Canine teams can mitigate threats at airports, and despite inconclusive analysis, it has invested at least $19 million a year in the program. Without proper assessments and scientific evaluation of screening programs, TSA will continue to miss the mark in ensuring that taxpayers' dollars are used in effective programs that that improve passenger security while complementing proven screening programs. "

Link to Report

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Media Contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978