Washington, March 29: A funding dispute is causing significant disruptions at U.S. airports. Thousands of employees have not received their salaries.
Tom Homan, the White House’s chief of border affairs, stated that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees will only receive their pay once Congress resumes its operations and releases funds for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In an interview with CNN on Sunday, Homan mentioned that efforts are underway to ensure TSA employees receive their salaries as soon as possible, but the resolution depends on the U.S. Congress. He also expressed hope that TSA agents would receive their pay by Tuesday.
The partial shutdown has led to long security lines at major airports. Authorities have deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to assist with TSA operations.
Homan noted that wherever ICE officers are sent, the lines have shortened. He explained that agents are checking people’s identities and ensuring security at exit points.
Critics argue that this measure is insufficient. A union leader described it as ineffective.
The ongoing funding stalemate has highlighted deep divisions in Washington. A bipartisan Senate bill aimed at partially funding DHS has stalled in the House, where Republican leaders opposed the proposal.
Homan accused lawmakers opposing the administration’s approach of trying to limit enforcement. Meanwhile, Democrats argue that additional funding should be tied to reforms.
Senator Andy Kim warned that this stalemate is affecting ordinary American citizens. He stated, “Americans currently standing in lines at airports are facing this inconvenience because Speaker Mike Johnson is more concerned about his job than your troubles.”
He emphasized that the shutdown should have ended already, criticizing the administration for delaying relief for TSA employees despite having the authority to act.
Homan insisted that the agency should be prioritized, especially at a time when security threats in the country have increased. The U.S. Congress is now on recess for two weeks, leaving uncertainty about when a resolution will be reached.
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