Generally effective

The Transportation and Safety Administration did not pass a series of tests involving airport security.

That was bad enough.

But, subsequently, it was disclosed that 73 TSA agents have suspected terrorism ties.

That is 73 people ensconced in the very process that is designed to root out terrorists.

That is 73 people hired to stop people just like them.

Not only do these agents screen passengers and luggage, they are charged with screening airline and airport employees and airport vendors.

Although the TSA employment checks have been classified as “generally effective,” thousands upon thousands did not even complete their applications.

Somehow “generally effective” does not instill much confidence.

No organization as large as TSA, Homeland Security or the federal government can be totally effective.

Still, we rely upon government to do its job.

Often, it doesn’t.

Might it be because “generally effective” is the standard towards which it strives? TSA might even be far superior to other organizations.

Giving, for instance, Congress a “generally effective” rating would be laughable and a benchmark in grade inflation.

In the world of government, “generally effective” might be considered the gold standard of achievement.

Let’s hope it isn’t.