DHS investing $1B in airport checkpoint technology
Over the weekend, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the agency is investing $1 billion in airport security checkpoints around the nation.
"The new technology will include not only X ray technology to scan carry on bags, also checked bags, but also the physical technology that it takes to scan individuals," Noem said at a press conference at Harry Reid Las Vegas International Airport on Saturday. "You've all seen the ATS systems and the scanning technologies. All of those will be implemented, as well as more training into our officers."
Noem also handed out bonuses for TSA officers in both Las Vegas and Minneapolis on Sunday.
The Transportation Security Agency has been focusing on training agents with "hospitality" in addition to security.
"Not just facilitating individuals getting through security checkpoints, but how to help people that may be stressed in that type of a situation, people who may be nervous, flyers, how we can help them cope with that situation, anyone who may be having a mental health struggle, all of those are situations which our security officers face every single day. Is helping individuals feel much more comfortable while we make sure that we're also getting them screened into their flights on time," Noem said of those who might fly during the holidays.
-ABC News' Luke Barr






