DHS Shutdown Update: TSA Working Without Pay

As of February 14, 2026, a partial government shutdown has targeted the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), leaving the nation’s 61,000 TSA officers to work without immediate compensation. While other federal agencies remain funded through the fall, a legislative stalemate over immigration enforcement has left airport security in financial limbo.

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The Current Situation

• Essential Status: Because they are “essential” to national security, TSA agents must report to duty despite the lack of a paycheck.
• The Funding Gap: Congress failed to reach a deal following a brief “stopgap” funding measure that expired at midnight.
• Aviation Impact: Air Traffic Controllers remain unaffected (FAA funding is secure), but airport security lines are the primary concern for travelers.

What Travelers Should Expect

While operations are currently stable, history shows that prolonged shutdowns lead to “blue flu” (increased sick calls) as agents face financial stress. If the deadlock continues past the next pay cycle, travelers should prepare for:

1. Increased Wait Times: Fewer open lanes due to staffing shortages.
2. Volatile Security Queues: Checkpoints may open and close unpredictably.
3. Potential Terminal Closures: Some smaller airports may consolidate security to a single point.

Note: Pay for these employees will be issued retroactively once a funding bill is signed into law, but until then, agents are essentially volunteering their time to keep the traveling public safe.