Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young, Tammy Duckworth, Roger Marshall, and Maggie Hassan have announced the signing of the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act into law. This legislation aims to provide veterans with service-connected disabilities access to expedited screening through the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program.

Currently, TSA PreCheck is available at no cost to active duty members, reserves, and National Guard service members. The VETS Safe Travel Act extends this benefit to veterans who are amputees, paralyzed, or blind. These individuals often face challenges when passing through airport security due to prosthetics, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids.

Senator Young stated that airports can be difficult for veterans with disabilities because of invasive screenings at security checkpoints. "This new law will provide dignified travel to thousands of wounded warriors by ensuring PreCheck benefits are easily available to them," he said.

Senator Duckworth emphasized the sacrifices made by millions of veterans who return home with service-connected disabilities. She expressed pride in President Biden's signing of the bipartisan legislation which aims to make air travel less intrusive for these veterans.

Senator Marshall noted that making airport security easier for wounded veterans is a meaningful way to honor their sacrifices. He expressed pride in starting the 119th Congress by passing this legislation.

Senator Hassan highlighted that navigating airport security should not be an additional hurdle for veterans who have already faced extraordinary challenges in service. She stated that the bipartisan legislation recognizes these unique challenges and seeks to ensure a dignified travel experience.

Under the VETS Safe Travel Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs will certify veteran eligibility. TSA will process applications and grant access to TSA PreCheck at no cost if applicants pass a background check and interview process. Additionally, TSA advises using TSA PreCheck alongside calling the TSA Cares hotline 72 hours before departure for expedited screening.

The legislation has garnered support from several organizations including the Wounded Warrior Project, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Honor Flight Network, Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion, Blinded Veterans Association, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.