Amtrak Increases Security
Since 9/11, Amtrak passengers have not faced the same types of security measures found at airports. After all, you can't hijack a train and fly it into a corporate tower.
Amtrak took a quieter approach, with the most visible component being reducing the amount of luggage that you are allowed to carry on board. (An important change, because you can't check bags to or from most Amtrak stations.)
Last week, however, Amtrak instituted mobile security teams to go from station to station inspecting passenger luggage. These random checks with explosive detection machines come without warning.
If pulled out of line for a check, you can refuse, but, if so, you won't be able to travel.
We like this new system, which preserves the ease of boarding for most Amtrak passengers.