Changes coming for those flying into US

Electronic devices must have power to pass screening process

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The head of the Transportation Security Administration says new changes are coming for the screening process for overseas flights coming to the U.S.

It calls for passengers to turn on electronic devices to make sure they work.

If it won't power on because of a dead battery, passengers can't take it with them or will have to undergo additional screening.

Most Jacksonville passengers at the airport Monday said they don't have a problem with it.

"I think it's a good idea," traveler Tracy Willis said. "Any precaution is a good opportunity to make sure the United States citizens are safe."

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson talked about the measures on NBC's "Meet the Press."

"Our job is to try to anticipate the next attack and simply not react to the last," Johnson said.

The changes will focus on airports in Europe and the Middle East and don't affect what passengers can bring on a plane.

"I don't mind a little extra security or whatever regulation it is to keep people safe," traveler Bill Miller said.

"I'm just glad you're actually able to use cellphones on planes now," traveler James Marsh said. "We don't have to turn them off. I'm not sure what to think about the batteries issue. I have to do a little more research and see what is proposed."

The TSA will not disclose which airports will conduct the additional screenings. Industry data shows more than 250 foreign airports offer nonstop service to the U.S.


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