House Votes on DHS Funding Bill as TSA Workers Miss Another Payday

Senate reaches deal to restore most DHS funding, but excludes ICE and border patrol

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:34pm

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TSA workers have gone a full month without pay as the House prepares to vote on a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill. The Senate reached a compromise deal early Friday morning to restore funding for most DHS agencies, except for ICE and border patrol, after eight previous votes. This comes after 500 TSA resignations and widespread call-outs significantly impacted travel around the country.

Why it matters

The funding impasse has created significant hardship for TSA workers and disrupted travel nationwide. The TSA was created in response to the 9/11 attacks to enhance airport security, and its continued operations are critical to maintaining public safety. The political standoff over immigration enforcement policies has become a flashpoint in the funding negotiations.

The details

The Senate deal reached around 2 a.m. on Friday does not include funding for ICE and border patrol, which was a key demand from Democrats. President Trump had stated he would sign an executive order to resume TSA pay, but that still requires final approval from the House. Airport officials are urging travelers to arrive 4 hours before departure due to the staffing shortages.

  • TSA workers have gone a full month without pay as of this Friday payday.
  • The Senate reached a compromise deal early Friday morning, around 2 a.m.
  • The House is expected to vote on the DHS funding bill around 10 a.m. on Friday.
  • Congress is set to head out for a two-week break after the vote.

The players

Ricky Smith

General manager at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

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What they’re saying

“It's certainly not a good situation for them and other airport workers who continue to walk outside of their normal duties just to help passengers get through to the airport. We're making the best of the situation, but it's been a difficult situation for everyone involved.”

— Ricky Smith, General manager

What’s next

The House is expected to vote on the DHS funding bill around 10 a.m. on Friday. If approved, it would restore most DHS funding, excluding ICE and border patrol, and allow TSA workers to receive their paychecks.

The takeaway

The funding impasse has created significant hardship for TSA workers and disrupted travel nationwide. This political standoff over immigration enforcement policies has become a flashpoint, underscoring the critical role the TSA plays in maintaining public safety at airports.