I need to vent.

[RayZor]

The threat is obvious.  Air Traffic Controllers, as disreputable as they are, could easily fashion a can-of-chili-launcher and take out some aircraft from all the way up in that tower.  They are just not to be trusted!!! 
Before you flame me, I was just kidding, but I think you guys know that!
If we can trust our ATC to handle the stress that they do and safely manage and direct an armada aircraft on a day to day basis, I think we can trust them not to make bombs with chili.   

[LORm]

Interesting experience tyketto. I've read an article written in the Popular Communications magazine, that without an amateur "ham" radio license it is illegal to use a scanner while in a vehicle in certain states of the US. I'm glad they didn't confiscate your scanner.

I'll try to find the magazine. It's an interesting read. The author, monitoring communications in his vehicle, had his scanner and amateur HT radio confiscated by the police. Even though possessing an amateur license he had to go through an expensive legal fee in court to regain his equipment.

Multiple times this year and previous years in HNL, KOA, LAX, ORD, SFO and DEN I've spent many hours in the terminal and in airline lounges with my scanner out (with headphones) and have not once been questioned. Usually I'll go through TSA without the battery holder installed and haven't experienced a inspection of my carry-on.

[Blue Yonder]

without an amateur "ham" radio license it is illegal to use a scanner while in a vehicle in certain states of the US.

Florida is one of those states, although as far as I know the law applies to mobile scanners only. It doesn't apply to handheld ones.

In some jurisdictions one is required to obtain a "scanner permit" whereby they can use their scanner so as long as they have it registered with the local authorities.

Note that most of these laws are aimed at combating crime and have nothing to do
with terrorism, NSA wiretapping, Enron, Halliburton, torture ...etc.