TSA tests new screening procedures for seniors

HOUSTON – The Transportation Security Administration is testing new airport screening procedures for people 75 and older.

Under the new procedures, seniors may not have to remove their shoes or light jackets to clear a security checkpoint.

The procedures are being tested at four airports across the country, including Chicago's O'Hare Airport. It is not being tested at a Houston airport.

If there are any abnormalities in the screening process, TSA agents said seniors may still need to undergo a pat-down.

The TSA said the relaxed security measures are almost exactly the same as the ones put in place last year for children 12 and under.

The TSA said because it has put a more layered security program in place, some of which is out of the eyeshot of passengers, it feels security is not being compromised with these loosened measures.