Summary
TSA officers in the United States are working without pay due to a government funding shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security. This situation is causing financial difficulties for workers and potential delays at airports as travelers increase during the spring period. Efforts to fund the department have stalled in Congress, leading to ongoing strains.
Key Facts
- TSA officers missed their first full paycheck due to a government shutdown.
- TSA employees must work without pay during shutdowns because they are considered essential.
- Airports are warning of longer lines and flight delays as more TSA workers are absent or quit.
- Congress cannot agree on a plan to fund Homeland Security, affecting workers' pay.
- Some airports are helping unpaid TSA workers with food and essentials.
- This is the second time in recent months TSA workers have worked without pay due to a shutdown.
- Public figures highlight that TSA workers earn about $35,000 annually and cannot easily go without pay.
- The Senate recently failed to pass funding for Homeland Security with a 51-46 vote.
