WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — Two Republican U.S. senators recently introduced a bill to abolish the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Rhode Islanders have mixed opinions on it. "If it goes through, I think it could be helpful," one traveler at T.F. Green Airport told 12 News on Wednes day. Meanwhile, another said they think TSA "is doing a pretty good job now." The agency was created more than 20 years ago in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. The bill's sponsors are U.S. Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Tommy Tuberville, R-Alabama. RELATED: Why are Republicans trying to abolish TSA? The goal of the bill is to privatize airport security, which the sponsors believe would "increase cost-efficiency and security." According to the bill's text, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem would be required to "eliminate or transfer all authorities, enforcement functions, and programs of the Administration." An Office of Aviation Security Oversight would also be created within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). "Maybe that would be a downside to not have everything regulated the same," traveler Lisa Cato said. "But again, for me, it's whatever is the safest." U.S. Sen. Jack Reed disagrees with the idea of getting rid of TSA. "Safety of the flying public in the United States and worldwide is issue number one," Reed said. "We have to ensure that. TSA does that." Reed added that there's room to improve TSA with approaches such as investing "in new technologies" and "developing AI solutions." The bill has since been referred to the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media:                     Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less