Texas lawmakers pass TSA 'anti-groping' bills

Both houses of the Texas Legislature have passed "anti-groping" bills that would criminalize intentional, inappropriate touching during airport security pat-downs by the TSA.

But supporters of a tougher line against TSA say the new versions have been watered down too much, prompting a small group of protesters at the Capitol in Austin on Monday to shout "traitor" and "treason" at lawmakers.

The House's tougher initial version appeared to be going nowhere last week after House Speaker Joe Strauss, a Republican, called it a "publicity stunt" aimed at making a symbolic attack on the federal government.

Changes were then made at the recommendation of Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, a Republican, and others. The revisions give security officials a defense to prosecution if they act with "reasonable suspicion" that the search is necessary.

The new version would still make it a misdemeanor punishable with up to a year in jail to touch a person's sexual organs and other sensitive areas.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, KXAN TV reports, praised the Senate version:

We all want our skies to be safe and we all want to fight terrorism. But airport security must focus on stopping terrorists, not harassing innocent travelers. With the passage of SB 29, the Texas Legislature is not only telling the TSA to change their policies − we're telling the Obama Administration we will not be intimidated and we will vigorously defend our Constitutional rights.

Rep. Leo Berman, R-Tyler, says Texas leaders have taken their first stand on behalf of state sovereignty and the 10th Amendment, which defines federalism, the Tyler Morning Telegraph reports.

The Republican-controlled chambers have until Wednesday to resolve several differences between their bills before sending one to Gov. Rick Perry.