4th payment request for loans of 2.3 billion euros

Proposed Legislation in ⁢California Aims to​ Restrict Clear’s Airport Operations

A new ‍bill introduced in ‌California⁢ is seeking to limit the ​services provided by ​Clear, a company that offers expedited ⁣security screening at​ airports. Advocates of the legislation argue that Clear’s service creates inequality by allowing‍ affluent‌ individuals ⁣to bypass regular security lines, disadvantaging other passengers.

Details of the Bill

The proposed bill, SB-1372,‌ is the‌ first of its kind in the United States and would mandate ‌that ​third-party vendors‌ like ‌Clear either have their own dedicated ‍security lane or face the possibility of⁣ being barred from operating in California airports.

Clear charges ⁢its members $189 annually to verify their identities at airports, granting them ‍access to expedited security checkpoints. The service is ⁢available at over 55 airports nationwide, as well as various sports ⁤venues.​ Members ⁣undergo ⁣identity verification at Clear kiosks, which is separate from TSA ‌Pre-Check‍ but can ​be used ⁢in conjunction with it.

Support and Opposition

State⁤ Senator Josh Newman, a Democrat,⁢ is sponsoring the bill, ‌emphasizing the importance of fairness in the ‌airport security process. ⁣On the other hand, Republican Senator Janet Nguyen⁢ shares similar concerns but has not endorsed the legislation, citing potential revenue losses for airlines.

Six major airlines, including Delta and United, have ⁢expressed opposition to⁤ the bill, highlighting that Clear’s ⁢services were utilized over ‌5 million times in California in‍ 2023. They argue that the proposed restrictions could lead to increased​ fees and longer wait times for travelers.

Impact on ⁣Travel Experience

Clear’s ⁢spokesperson, Ricardo Quinto, echoed the airlines’ sentiments, pledging to collaborate‌ with lawmakers and airport‌ authorities to ensure smooth operations at California airports. Supporters of the bill, such as the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, believe that it ⁢is necessary ⁢to address the disparities caused by Clear’s services.

James Murdock, president of⁢ AFGE Local 1230, criticized Clear for prioritizing paying customers over ⁤others‌ in the security queue, leading to extended wait ⁣times for non-members. The ⁣bill is scheduled‌ for review by the California State Senate’s transportation committee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ​proposed legislation in California reflects a growing concern over the impact‌ of expedited security services on airport equity. ⁣While Clear​ offers convenience to its ‍members, the bill aims⁢ to ensure a fair​ and efficient security screening process for all passengers.

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