TSA Agents Miss First Full Paycheck During Partial Shutdown

Airports set up food pantries for workers as budget impasse continues

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:04am

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The partial government shutdown over Department of Homeland Security funding has deprived TSA agents of their first full paycheck, leading some airports to publicly ask people to donate gas and food gift cards, as well as nonperishable food items, for the airport screeners. The agency reported that 305 employees left their jobs from the start of the shutdown on Feb. 14 through Monday, and there are concerns that staffing shortages could be exacerbated as the busy spring break travel season approaches.

Why it matters

The partial government shutdown has had a direct impact on the livelihoods of TSA agents, who typically earn around $40,000 per year and live paycheck to paycheck. The situation has led to concerns about potential staffing shortages at airports and questions about the long-term viability of the current TSA model, with some calling for privatization of airport security.

The details

The Department of Homeland Security, which employs about 260,000 employees, is the last US agency to lock down its budget. Lawmakers are stuck on controversial ICE and Border Patrol funding, with Senate Democrats proposing several changes to the agency, including requiring warrants to be signed by judges before agents can enter private homes without consent. Republicans, meanwhile, say that many of these requirements, especially judicial warrants, are nonstarters.

  • The partial government shutdown began on February 14, 2026.
  • From the start of the shutdown through Monday, the TSA reported that 305 employees left their jobs.

The players

TSA

The Transportation Security Administration, a federal agency that employs about 61,000 workers to conduct security screenings at airports.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that employs about 260,000 employees and is the last US agency to lock down its budget during the partial government shutdown.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.