Which statement best describes TSA's mission?

• A. To monitor airline profits
• B. To regulate security for all forms of transportation
• C. To protect the nation's transportation system and ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce
• D. To screen passengers only at airports

Answer: (C)

Protecting the nation's transportation system while ensuring freedom of movement for people and commerce is the core purpose of TSA. This describes a broad mission that covers security across all transportation modes—air, land, and sea—while also allowing people and goods to move efficiently. The emphasis is on reducing risk and preventing threats without unduly hindering travel or commerce, which is why this description fits best. The other options miss the broader scope (profit monitoring, broad regulatory power, or screening only at airports) and don’t capture TSA’s balance of security with maintaining movement.