Rep. Langworthy Introduces Bill to Stop Diversion of TSA Fees and Pay Workers During Shutdowns
This bill was recently introduced and is currently being reviewed by the House Committee on Homeland Security. It is in the early stages of the lawmaking process and is not yet scheduled for a vote. The bill is considered active as it waits for further consideration by the committee.
While protecting worker pay is popular, redirecting fees away from the general budget is often difficult because it increases the deficit.
TSA employs roughly 60,000 officers and staff who have historically gone unpaid during government shutdowns. This bill creates a dedicated trust fund that would automatically pay their salaries, benefits, and overtime even when Congress fails to pass a budget. It also ensures that security fee revenue is used for their workforce support rather than being diverted to the Treasury. This is a structural change that would permanently protect TSA workers from the financial hardship of shutdown-related missed paychecks.
“Salaries, benefits, and overtime compensation of Transportation Security Officers and other personnel necessary to conduct passenger and baggage screening and aviation security operations.”
Referred to the Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Referred to the House Committee on Homeland Security.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
The Pay TSA Act of 2026 would establish a Transportation Security Trust Fund to ensure 9/11 Passenger Security Fees are used exclusively for aviation security. The bill prioritizes TSA personnel compensation and technology upgrades, preventing workers from being used as 'political pawns.'
As the DHS shutdown enters its 39th day, a tentative deal includes the Pay TSA Act of 2026. The proposal would shift salary funding to a dedicated trust fund, though Democrats are demanding the bill include permanent pay parity with the General Schedule scale and protections against reprogramming.
Lawmakers have reintroduced various proposals, including the Pay TSA Act of 2026, to protect aviation workers from unpaid labor during shutdowns. However, experts note that once a funding crisis ends, legislative momentum often fades, leaving the underlying funding gaps unaddressed.
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Pay TSA Act of 2026
Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.