TSA worker pay won't eliminate airport woes overnight, experts say
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- President Trump signed an executive order directing immediate payment to TSA officers, potentially ending their six-week period without pay amid the DHS shutdown.
- Despite the order, travel experts and union leaders warn that long security lines and staffing shortages at airports may persist into next week or longer as TSA workers await back pay and airports adjust staffing levels.
- The shutdown has led to significant TSA workforce challenges, including high callout rates, nearly 500 resignations since mid-February, and difficulties in recruiting and training new officers.
- The White House plans to fund TSA pay through surplus funds from a previous tax cut bill, but union leaders emphasize that a congressional resolution to end the DHS shutdown is still necessary.
- Aviation security experts caution that while some airports experienced extreme delays, most security wait times remain typical, and travelers should prepare for possible extended lines during upcoming busy travel periods.
