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Understanding TSA Funding Amid Government Shutdown: Who Pays Officers?

KVIA•Monday, March 23, 2026 at 8:00 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

As the partial government shutdown continues, approximately 61,000 TSA employees remain on duty without pay, highlighting the complexities of their funding. The TSA's budget is primarily sourced from a passenger fee established after the 9/11 attacks, currently set at $5.60 per one-way ticket. However, a significant portion of these fees, about one-third, is diverted to reduce the federal deficit rather than support TSA operations. This situation has led to calls for Congress to allow TSA to access these funds directly to ensure employees are compensated during funding lapses. The ongoing political stalemate over immigration policies is at the heart of the funding impasse, affecting TSA operations and worker pay.

Key Details: • TSA employees are currently working without pay due to the government shutdown. • The September 11 Security Fee is $5.60 per one-way trip and contributes to TSA funding. • Approximately $1.6 billion of the $4.6 billion collected in security fees in 2023 was diverted to the federal budget deficit. • Congress must approve TSA's budget annually, which is currently stalled due to political disagreements.

travel funding congress tsa government-shutdown

People & Organizations

Department of Homeland SecurityDonald TrumpTransportation Security AdministrationUS Travel AssociationPatty MurrayErik HansenJohn Pistole

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