TSA officers are quitting rather than working without pay during shutdown
Fortune • • nation
Key Points:
- TSA agents have worked without pay for 43 days last fall, 4 days earlier this year, and 35 days during the current shutdown, leading to financial strain and morale issues among staff.
- Since the current shutdown began on February 14, at least 376 TSA officers have resigned, worsening an already high attrition rate at the agency.
- Staffing shortages have caused long wait times at major airports, with some locations experiencing absentee rates over 30%, checkpoint closures, and delays of multiple hours for travelers.
- TSA union leaders report many officers are struggling financially, with some unable to afford medical expenses, and some relying on food drives and side jobs to make ends meet.
- Acting Deputy TSA Administrator warns the shutdown will
