Rep. Grimm Calls TSA's Refusal to Reinstate Knife Ban "Idiotic'

Statement

Rep. Michael Grimm (R,C-SI/Brooklyn) issued the following statement in response to TSA Administrator John Pistole's testimony standing by decision to lift the ban on knives in airplane cabins:

"The TSA Administrator's views on lifting the knife ban are borderline idiotic. We live in a post-9/11 world, and there is no excuse to take liberties when it comes to public safety. As a former federal law enforcement officer, I know firsthand that even a 2" blade can cause very serious harm when used by a trained individual. There is no place for a knife in an airplane cabin; and if one must travel with a knife, it can be checked in a bag.

"At yesterday's hearing, Administrator Pistole stood firm in his position to allow knives on planes. His complete disregard for the security concerns raised by the Members of Congress, key stakeholders like flight attendants and air marshals, and the general public is a disgrace. This is not the type of decision that should be made from the top down. This is a matter of safety, and Pistole's obstinacy will not be taken lightly.

"Administrator Pistole has made it clear that Congressional action is needed. If we have to force his hand, we will. I have introduced the "No Knives Act" with Rep. Markey, which would reinstate the TSA ban, and will do all I can to work with my colleagues to move this bill forward and into law."

Source