After initial estimates of up to $100 in government-imposed charges for enrollment into Registered Traveler programs, the Transportation Security Administration today outlined recalibrated costs that bring the fee down to $30.
TSA earlier this month estimated the cost to the government of about $30 per enrollee for a background check and $70 per enrollee to supplement costs to pay TSA screeners working the lanes at airports.
The $70 fee caused the most controversy among Registered Traveler proponents, who argued that an extra screening fee should not be incurred unless a greater burden is placed on TSA screeners
(BTN, Sept. 25). Last week, TSA reevaluated this fee, with input from vendors, and today showed it ultimately agreed with their assessment.
Today on its Web site, TSA said it "will not seek cost reimbursement beyond the enrollment fee, until such time that RT screening modifications impact TSA duties, responsibilities, or costs."