On the recordMarch 20, 2013
11 years ago our Nation experienced unimaginable loss caused by the terrorist attacks on September 11. Let us not forget that the terrorists overtook planes using simple box cutters, which were allowed on board at the time. TSA's recent decision to now lift the ban on knives on aircraft is shockingly irresponsible and reckless. Why make this potentially deadly decision when this policy has been keeping our Nation safer for years? This is dangerous for passengers, flight attendants, and pilots. The airlines, flight attendants, pilots, and Federal air marshals have all expressed their strong opposition to this TSA policy that will compromise their safety and the safety of their passengers. Americans can plainly see that it is commonsense to keep potential weapons off our airplanes. We have already witnessed the harm knives can cause. Knives took down four planes. Knives took down the World Trade Center. Knives struck at the heart of our Nation's defense. Knives took thousands of innocent lives. This is a huge step backwards in protecting American security. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand with the American people and urge TSA to not implement this reckless strategy. ____________________
