TSA Suggests Fines Up to $1,500 for Mask Violations

The Transportation Security Administration is suggesting fines up to $1,500 for passengers and individuals who repeatedly violate its nearly week-old requirement that masks be worn on commercial aircraft and in airports.

''TSA will recommend a fine ranging from $250 for the first offense up to $1,500 for repeat offenders,'' the agency said Friday on its website. ''Based on substantial aggravating or mitigating factors, TSA may seek a sanction amount that falls outside these ranges.''

The TSA began requiring masks on Tuesday ''at … airport screening checkpoints and throughout the commercial and public transportation systems.''

That came after President Joe Biden signed an executive order on Jan. 21 requiring federal governmental authorities to impose regulations making masks mandatory on public transportation. The order remains in effect until at least May 11.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention subsequently decreed face masks be worn while travelers are at transportation hubs and on trains, buses and planes.

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