DHS Shutdown Leaves TSA Staff Working Unpaid Again

DALLAS — A partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken effect, meaning TSA screening operations continue, but many frontline employees are working without pay while funding remains lapsed. 

TSA has said about 95% of its workforce is deemed “essential” and must keep protecting travelers during a shutdown, even as pay is delayed.

Travel groups and major airlines are warning that if the funding lapse drags on, the strain could show up in higher absenteeism, longer checkpoint waits, and knock-on delays, especially with spring-break demand approaching. 

Importantly, this is not a full federal shutdown: most of the government is funded through Sept. 30, and air traffic controllers aren’t in the same boat because FAA funding is already in place, so the biggest day-to-day passenger impact is expected at security screening, not ATC staffing.

What it means for travelers (right now):

• Plan for longer security lines at peak hours and busier airports.
• Arrive earlier than usual and keep an eye on your airport’s posted wait times / your airline’s alerts.

Federal guidance indicates that affected employees are expected to receive back pay once appropriations are restored.