POLITICS

DHS funding lapse causes major airport security disruptions

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DHS funding lapse causes major airport security disruptions

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

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Sources: 11

Washington: A DHS funding standoff left thousands of TSA employees unpaid and produced long security lines at major U.S. airports as of March 29, with White House border czar Tom Homan saying TSA pay depends on Congress reopening funding and an executive action promising near-term payments. Airports reported extended waits and deployed ICE agents to assist TSA checkpoints this week; union leaders and DHS cited high callout rates and hundreds of quits, and an executive order issued Friday aims to deliver pay by Monday though staffing shortages may persist.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Mid-February: DHS funding lapses, many TSA employees go unpaid.
Following weeks: Callout rates rise; hundreds of TSA officers resign or quit.
Late March: ICE agents are deployed to about 14 airports to assist checkpoints.
March 27: President issues executive order directing emergency pay to TSA agents.
March 29: Reporting notes 44-day partial shutdown status, continued long lines and localized severe delays.

Why This Matters to You

If you're flying soon, expect longer airport lines. The TSA staffing shortage means more wait time at security checkpoints. Check your airport's wait times online before you leave home. Plan to arrive earlier than usual.

The Bottom Line

The DHS funding lapse has real-world effects on travel. While an executive order promises pay for TSA agents soon, staffing shortages may continue. Worth forwarding if you know someone flying soon.