Governor Perry Adds “Anti-Groping” Legislation to Special Session Call
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Gov. Rick Perry has added legislation banning "intrusive" airport security screenings among the items in the special legislative session.
Texas Rep. David Simpson sponsored a bill in the House last month that would make it a criminal offense for officials conducting traveler pat-downs to touch "the anus, sexual organ, buttocks, or breast of another person" including through clothing.
The measure died in the Senate after a threat from federal officials to close airports if it were approved.
Simpson sent a letter to Perry on Sunday urging him to defend the "privacy, dignity, and constitutional rights of our citizens."
Lawmakers can only take up measures Perry adds to a special-session call. Perry announced the decision Monday night.