TSA Gets a Bigger Budget for 2012

HStoday reported that although the overall Department of Homeland Security budget was cut to $39.6 billion the TSA received a bigger portion for 2012. The TSA budget this year is $7.85 billion which is a $153 million increase from 2011. 

The TSA will use this money to help purchase 250 more full body scanners or "Advanced Imaging Technology" devices. A congressional conference committee approved the purchase and roll out of the new machines. This effectively shot down a house bill that would have denied the spending before it even went to vote. 

In addition to the AIT devices the money is set to be used for "140 new behavior detection officers, 12 additional multi-modal Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams, 20 additional explosives detection canine teams, and 53 air cargo security staffers."

The TSA is allowed to employ 46,000 people in full time positions this year.

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