California Lawmakers Consider Bill to Regulate Clear Airport Security Service
California lawmakers are set to discuss a bill that could potentially impose strict regulations on the popular expedited airport security service, Clear. The bill, if passed, could force Clear out of many airports in the Golden State, sparking concerns among frequent flyers and industry stakeholders.
Clear offers its members a fast track to the front of TSA screening lines, bypassing the usual wait times. However, the proposed legislation would prohibit third-party companies like Clear from providing expedited access to TSA lines, potentially requiring Clear to set up separate screening areas at airports, a costly and logistically challenging endeavor.
The bill, introduced by California Sen. Josh Newman, aims to address concerns about the preferential treatment given to wealthy travelers through services like Clear. While the legislation has garnered support from TSA workers and flight attendants unions, major U.S. airlines have opposed it, citing potential impacts on checkpoint wait times and airport revenue.
Newman clarified that the goal of the bill is not to ban Clear from airports but to eliminate the perceived line-cutting aspect of the service. He pointed to examples of premium check-in lounges at airports as alternative models that could be explored.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, the fate of Clear in California hangs in the balance. The outcome will not only impact Clear’s operations in the state but also set a precedent for similar services nationwide. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.