Sensitive Security Information (SSI) and Transportation Security: Background and Controversies

Publication Date: February 2004

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

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Research Area: Transportation

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Abstract:

In November 2003, the U.S. attorney's office in Miami dropped a criminal case against a former federal baggage screener charged with stealing from a passenger's luggage. The case was dropped because prosecutors feared that sensitive security information (SSI) would have to be disclosed. At issue is the ability of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to prosecute other dishonest agency employees in the future. Will the same dilemma that led to the dismissal of this particular case occur again? In recent months, this and other important issues relating to SSI have been raised. This report provides a brief background on SSI regulation, an overview of the current policy issues, and a description of the criticism of, and support for, SSI policy. This report will be updated as events warrant.