Veterans with disabilities such as paralysis, permanent blindness, or who are amputees and use wheelchairs, prosthetic limbs, or other assistive devices for mobility can experience challenges when navigating through airport security. Veterans who rely on mobility and other assistive devices can experience difficulties because standard screening processes are often inaccessible. As a result, wheelchair users are subject to an invasive pat-down process. Additionally, removing prosthetics or other items used for mobility can put a veteran in a vulnerable situation and garner unwelcome attention from other travelers. 

The VETS Safe Travel Act (H.R. 7365) would provide free access to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program to eligible severely injured or ill veterans. Veterans would receive this benefit free of charge once they successfully pass all necessary background checks and interviews. Wheelchair users with TSA PreCheck can generally avoid the pat down. Furthermore, this bill would open dialogue on how to engage with passengers with disabilities and ensure they can travel with safety and dignity. 

PVA Position:

Congress should pass the VETS Safe Travel Act (H.R. 7365) to make it easier for veterans with paralysis, limb loss, or permanent blindness who use assistive devices, including wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs, to more easily navigate TSA security.