Story perspectives

TSA Workers Go Unpaid, Airports Urge Donations Amid Shutdown

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have not received pay for over three weeks due to a partial government shutdown tied to immigration policy disputes.
Denver International Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport urge travelers to donate food and gift cards for TSA employees.
Workers report frustration and some struggle to afford necessities during the shutdown.
If the shutdown persists, TSA callouts could rise and lengthen security lines at major airports.

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Story summary

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have not received pay for over three weeks due to a partial government shutdown tied to immigration policy disputes.
Denver International Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport urge travelers to donate food and gift cards for TSA employees.
Workers report frustration and some struggle to afford necessities during the shutdown.
If the shutdown persists, TSA callouts could rise and lengthen security lines at major airports.