By COLE DAVENPORT ’28
Updated 11:50 a.m. EDT, 17 April 2026
On Friday, March 13, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers missed a full paycheck as a result of a partial government shutdown. As of April 12, 2026, more than 400 TSA officers have quit, leading to significant delays in airport security operations. This caused frustration among travelers, with many suffering from extreme wait times and missed flights.
The shutdown rests at a stalemate as Congress has taken its annual spring recess, despite the issue remaining unresolved. Many expressed dissatisfaction with Congress’ handling of the issue, with many criticizing an apparent lack of concern. Bertha Waddy, a Supervisory Officer with TSA, stated, “It seems a little unfair—with the Congress people getting paid, and they’re not coming to an agreement—it’s like what’s going on? You’re messing with people’s livelihoods.” TSA agents receive a salary starting at $34,454, and for many, a missed paycheck can spell disastrous consequences. TSA workers started to receive partial backpay as of March 30, but for many who are unable to support themselves for weeks on the promise of backpay, they were forced to find other jobs, leading to a shortage of workers. In the case of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, only two of the airport’s eight security checkpoints were operational, leading to massive lines.
Congress’ return does not guarantee any sort of resolution; however, as the debate surrounding funding for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shows no signs of concluding. Democrats and Republicans are unable to reach an agreement that would allow the DHS to resume its functions. Numerous resolutions have been proposed for partial funding that would allow the DHS to resume; however, all have been blocked. Further complicating the matter, President Donald Trump threatened to withhold action on any legislation until the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE Act), which calls for stricter voter identification regulations, is passed. In an address to the nation, he stated, “Congress should unite and enact this common-sense, country-saving legislation right now, and it should be before anything else happens.” Additionally, Trump urged TSA workers to continue to work without pay throughout the shutdown, stating on X, “Keep fighting for the USA. GO TO WORK!”
With the shutdown showing little hope of swift resolution, airlines have taken to finding solutions to mitigate damage. Maura Barrett, a reporter for Scripps News stated, “Some airports are trying to step up to help their TSA agents, we saw Seattle has launched a food pantry for their workers, Atlanta airport is giving its agents meal vouchers if they show up to work here, in Denver the airport has even encouraged passengers to donate gift cards to the agents, if they are willing to.”
Many airlines waived cancellation and change fees to assist customers with itinerary difficulties resulting from the shutdown. Allegiant Air’s website states, “Passengers whose flights are scheduled to depart through April 30, 2026, can change or cancel their itineraries at no additional cost, making it easier to plan trips with confidence.” According to CBS News, “United Airlines, which notes that it has already eliminated most ticket change fees, has issued a special waiver for travelers flying to or from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, where passengers have faced wait times of up to six hours due to TSA worker absences.” It seems negotiations will continue, and airlines and TSA agents will have to work with partial backpay and major delays. ★
