For airline travelers, the shutdown answer is simple: Pay TSA officers - AP News

AP News
March 21, 2026
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3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Paying TSA officers during shutdowns is the solution to keep airport security functioning during federal budget lapses.

How This Affects You

Federal shutdowns could cause longer TSA screening lines at airports, potentially delaying your flights and disrupting travel plans.

AI Summary

Airline travelers are being urged to address a federal government shutdown by paying TSA officers directly, according to a proposal aimed at maintaining airport security screening during the funding lapse. The suggestion reflects frustration over the shutdown's impact on Transportation Security Administration workers, who continue operating checkpoints without pay. Paying TSA officers would sidestep the normal appropriations process and allow airports to keep security lines functioning while Congress remains deadlocked on funding legislation. The proposal highlights the practical crisis facing travelers and airports as a shutdown disrupts essential government operations. This workaround underscores the real-world strain on federal workers and the traveling public when Congress fails to pass budget measures.

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