The TSA has set up a special screening line at Tucson International Airport for migrants without the required identification.
By yourNEWS Media Staff
At the Tucson International Airport, a significant change in security screening procedures has been observed. Migrants recently released by the Border Patrol, who are now free to travel across the United States, were seen being processed through a special security screening line established by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This line is specifically for migrants, many of whom lack any form of identification.
As Breitbart Texas reported, these migrants, carrying manila envelopes with a Notice to Appear and documents confirming their release from federal custody, were directed to a separate TSA security checkpoint designated for “non-U.S. citizens without passports.” This arrangement contrasts with the strict identification requirements for U.S. citizens and legally admitted international travelers.
According to current TSA regulations, adult passengers aged 18 and over must present valid identification at airport checkpoints. The list of acceptable IDs includes state driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, among other government-issued photo IDs. However, a note at the bottom of this list mentions “acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint,” which likely applies to the migrants in question.
TSA Acceptable ID Sign
The influx of migrants crossing into the United States in Arizona has led to an increase in migrant releases into the country. Detention facilities at the border are operating beyond their capacity, prompting the need for rapid releases.
This situation raises security concerns. A DHS Office of the Inspector General report from April 2022 revealed that a migrant on the Terrorist Watch List was released by the Border Patrol in Yuma, Arizona. This individual was later allowed to board a flight to Tampa, Florida, despite being encountered by TSA personnel at Palm Springs International Airport. The failure to detain this individual promptly underscores the security risks associated with the current migrant surge.
The Border Patrol apprehended nearly 190,000 migrants entering the United States illegally at the southern border in November. The Tucson Border Patrol Sector, which includes Lukeville and San Miguel, continues to lead the southwest border with the apprehension of nearly 119,000 migrants during October and November. More than 17,000 migrants crossed into the Tucson Border Patrol Sector in one seven-day period in December.
