TSA To Re-Allow Lighters on Planes Starting August 4

Score one point for simple sanity. Finally realizing the absurdity of one of its many, many nutty rules about what you can and can't take on a plane, the TSA is at last relaxing the restriction against taking cigarette lighters aboard flights.

The rationale? The TSA itself says what we've all known for the two years since it was put into effect "Taking lighters away is security theater... It trivializes the security process." The story goes on to note that many smokers have found ways to sneak lighters aboard despite the ban, and that lighters aren't required to ignite an explosive device anyway: Any bomb could simply be detonated with an electronic trigger (and arouse less suspicion in the process).

Let's hear it for common sense!

The details: Starting August 4, all lighters except for high-heat, torch-style lighters will be allowed in carry-on bags. While the ban on liquids in containers greater than three ounces will stand (boo!), new rules about breast milk will go into effect on August 4, too. (Read the linked story for full details, moms.)

While I'm disappointed that the TSA will continue wasting time hunting down toothpaste and shampoo, this is at least a step in the right direction. Any time security rules are relaxed the TSA notes that searching for stuff that's not a real threat is just a distraction from searching for things that are actually dangerous, like guns and bomb components. Keep up the critical thought, TSA.

LINK: U.S. Will Allow Most Types of Lighters on Planes