The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has warned that airports may close if the partial government shutdown continues, as the agency grapples with severe staffing shortages and unpaid workers. Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill testified before Congress on March 25, stating that the TSA is exploring all options to maintain operations amid the crisis.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The TSA has been unfunded for half of the current calendar year, with approximately 50,000 officers working without pay since mid-February. McNeill reported that over 480 officers have quit, and callout rates have spiked to 40-50% at some airports, leading to record-long wait times exceeding four hours. The agency has also noted a 500% increase in assaults against TSA officers since the shutdown began.
Deeper Dive & Context
Economic Hardships for TSA Workers
McNeill detailed the severe financial strain on TSA officers, many of whom have missed bill payments, received eviction notices, and even resorted to selling blood and plasma to make ends meet. Some workers are sleeping in their cars to save on gas money. The shutdown has also disrupted disaster relief funds and cybersecurity intelligence sharing, according to other DHS officials.
Potential Airport Closures
The TSA may be forced to close smaller airports if staffing issues worsen. McNeill emphasized that the agency cannot hire and train new officers in time for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which begins in June. The training process for TSA officers takes four to six months, leaving the agency unable to staff checkpoints adequately for the event.
Political Deadlock
The shutdown, now in its 40th day, stems from a funding dispute between Congress and the White House. Senate Republicans proposed a plan to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) except for ICE's deportation operations, but Democrats have demanded reforms to immigration enforcement. President Donald Trump has not fully endorsed the proposal, complicating efforts to resolve the impasse.
Temporary Measures
In response to the crisis, President Trump deployed ICE agents to 14 major airports to assist with security. However, TSA officers have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of this measure, as ICE agents lack the specialized training required for TSA duties.
Public Reaction
Travelers have reported shock and frustration over the long wait times, with some airports seeing lines snake underground and outside terminals. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby criticized the political deadlock, urging lawmakers to reach a deal quickly to alleviate the crisis.