Kristi Noem reviews TSA's liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage

In July 2025, Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the United States, announced a potential change in airport security regulations regarding the transportation of liquids in carry-on luggage. This discussion follows the recent easing of the requirement for passengers to remove their shoes during security checks, which had been in place since 2006. The previous liquids rule, implemented by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), limited travelers to containers of 3.4 ounces or less, in response to security threats from liquid explosives following a foiled terror plot in 2006. At a summit in Washington, D.C., Noem indicated that advancements in screening technology and layered security measures have raised questions about the necessity of the current liquid restrictions. While she did not provide a specific timeline for changes, she hinted that new policies might improve the efficiency of the security process, allowing for faster movement through security checkpoints and ultimately making travel more convenient. This potential policy re-evaluation reflects a broader objective of enhancing airport security while accommodating modern travel needs and experiences. Noem's approach highlights a commitment to reassessing long-standing regulations to align with current security capabilities and passenger comfort.