TSA Agents Work Without Pay as Homeland Security Shutdown Continues

Travelers face potential delays as security screening staff work without compensation amid budget impasse.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that took effect early Saturday impacts the agency responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports across the country. Transportation Security Administration officers are expected to work without pay while lawmakers remain without an agreement on DHS' annual funding. Trade groups for the U.S. travel industry and major airlines have warned that the longer the DHS appropriations are lapsed, the longer security lines at the nation's commercial airports could get.

Why it matters

The shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security raises concerns about potential disruptions to air travel as the busy spring break season approaches. Past government shutdowns have led to flight cancellations and long delays at airports due to reduced TSA staffing, and experts warn the current situation could play out similarly if the impasse continues.

The details

About 95% of TSA workers are deemed essential personnel and required to keep working without pay during the shutdown. However, even a small number of unscheduled TSA absences could quickly lead to longer wait times, especially at smaller airports with single security checkpoints. Airlines may also choose to delay some departures to wait for passengers to clear screening, and shortages of TSA officers could slow the screening of checked luggage.

  • The DHS funding lapse took effect at midnight on February 14, 2026.
  • The previous government shutdown that impacted air travel lasted 43 days and ended on November 12, 2025.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The agency responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports across the United States.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that oversees the TSA and other agencies responsible for national security and immigration enforcement.

U.S. Travel

A trade group representing the U.S. travel industry.

Airlines for America

A trade association representing major U.S. airlines.

American Hotel & Lodging Association

A trade group representing the hotel and lodging industry in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“It's still fresh in their minds and potentially their pocketbooks.”

— John Rose, Chief Risk Officer, Altour (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

Lawmakers in both the House and Senate have been put on notice to return to Washington if a deal to end the DHS shutdown is reached. Negotiations between the White House and Democratic lawmakers are ongoing, but no agreement had been reached by the time Congress left for a 10-day break.

The takeaway

The ongoing DHS shutdown highlights the potential for significant disruptions to air travel if the impasse continues, underscoring the need for Congress and the White House to reach a timely resolution to avoid further impacts on travelers and the broader U.S. economy.