TSA Workers Miss First Full Paycheck as Shutdown Drags

Missed wages deepen staff shortages, trigger more airport security delays

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:30pm

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TSA workers are about to miss their first complete paycheck of the latest Homeland Security shutdown, even as they're required to keep manning checkpoints. Democrats say they're OK with funding most of the DHS, but they're refusing to sign off on money for ICE and Customs and Border Protection without changes to how those agencies operate. Republicans call the conditions unacceptable and accuse Democrats of walking away from talks. The impact is mounting, with more than 300 TSA officers resigning since the shutdown began, unscheduled absences increasing more than twofold, and some airports telling travelers to arrive as many as five hours before their plane takes off.

Why it matters

The ongoing political stalemate over government funding is having a direct impact on airport security and travel, with TSA workers facing financial hardship and airports struggling with staffing shortages that are causing major delays for passengers.

The details

TSA workers are about to miss their first complete paycheck of the latest Homeland Security shutdown, even as they're required to keep manning checkpoints. Union officials and airport executives describe TSA officers sleeping in cars, working side gigs, and even donating plasma to cover basics like gas. Some airports are taking matters into their own hands, opening up food pantries for TSA workers and asking the public to donate grocery and gas gift cards to them.

  • On Friday, airport screeners will miss their first complete paycheck of the latest Homeland Security shutdown.

The players

Democrats

They say they're OK with funding most of the DHS, but they're refusing to sign off on money for ICE and Customs and Border Protection without changes to how those agencies operate.

Republicans

They call the conditions unacceptable and accuse Democrats of walking away from talks.

Todd Hauptli

CEO of the American Association of Airport Executives, warning that longer lines and worse delays are likely before Congress blinks.

Anthony Riley

A 58-year-old dad of three who works at the airport in Syracuse, New York and is facing eviction, has no car at the moment, and is worried about his wife, who's on the list for a kidney donation.

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What they’re saying

“These are paycheck-to-paycheck jobs”

— Todd Hauptli, CEO of the American Association of Airport Executives

“Right now I'm doing everything I can to keep my family from being kicked out on the street.”

— Anthony Riley

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.