The California State Senator, Josh Newman, has introduced a bill that would ban the security screening company Clear from operating at California airports. The legislation aims to address concerns that Clear allows wealthy individuals to bypass TSA security lines by paying for expedited screening services. Newman believes that this creates an equity issue and undermines the travel experience for other passengers who have to wait in line. If passed, the bill would prevent Clear from providing its services at California airports, although the company has partnerships with nine airports across the state.
Clear is a private security clearance company that charges members an annual fee of $189 to verify their identities and escort them through security checkpoints at airports. The service is available at approximately 50 airports in the U.S. as well as at sports stadiums and other venues. Newman’s bill, SB-1372, does not seek to shut down Clear but rather to ensure that its customers do not disrupt the flow of regular passengers going through security. The legislation has garnered support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, flight attendant unions, and the union representing Transportation Security Officers in California.
Supporters of the bill believe that Clear’s services create an unfair advantage for paying customers at the expense of other travelers who do not have the means to access the expedited screening. They argue that Clear’s presence in security lines leads to longer wait times for non-paying customers and undermines the overall travel experience. Major airlines, including Delta, United, JetBlue, and others, have opposed the bill, arguing that it would restrict how airports manage security lines and potentially harm their business operations. Despite this opposition, Senator Newman remains committed to improving the travel experience for the majority of passengers.
The bill is scheduled to be reviewed by the California State Senate’s transportation committee, where it will face a variety of stakeholders with conflicting interests. The legislation seeks to create a more equitable and efficient travel environment for all passengers, ensuring that those who cannot afford luxury services are not disadvantaged in the airport security process. While Clear has provided economic benefits to California airports and customers, the bill aims to strike a balance between the interests of paying customers and the needs of the general public. Senator Newman has framed the legislation as a matter of dignity in travel, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all passengers have a positive and fair experience while going through security checkpoints.
