Pursuit's Take
OIG audited the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques program. The program’s intent is to screen passengers by observing their behavior in order to detect potential high-risk travelers.
Since the Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques program began in 2007, data provided by TSA indicate that the program has expended an estimated $878 million and has more than 2,800 full-time equivalent positions, as of September 30, 2012. However, TSA has not implemented a strategic plan to ensure the program’s success. As a result, TSA cannot ensure that passengers at United States airports are screened objectively, show that the program is cost-effective, or reasonably justify the program’s expansion.