TSA Workers Without Pay Face Rising Absences as Shutdown Hits Airports

The government shutdown has left many TSA officers unpaid for a month. Because of this, about ten percent of them skip work each day. On Tuesday the problem grew. At three major airports—New York JFK, Pittsburgh and Houston‑Bush—around thirty percent of officers were absent. At Houston‑Hobby the number rose to forty percent. Normally only a few TSA staff call in sick or miss work. The usual rate is below two percent. But on Tuesday the absence spike hit a record of ten point two percent, according to Homeland Security officials. Since the shutdown began 366 officers have quit their posts.Some airports are cutting back on security checks. Others are trying to raise money so the officers can buy food and supplies while they wait for pay. A TSA leader warned that if the trend continues, smaller airports might have to close entirely because there will not be enough security staff. The shutdown began on February 13 after Congress could not agree on immigration reform. The pause has already slowed travel for many people. Airlines are worried about the busy spring season when a record number of passengers will fly. CEOs of major airlines have urged Congress to end the shutdown quickly. The disruption is a reminder that air travel can be hit hard by politics. When flights are cut or delayed, travelers may wait in long lines for hours. The TSA’s problems show how essential paid work is for keeping airports running safely.