Over 300 TSA Employees Quit Amid Ongoing DHS Shutdown and Increased Absences

In Brief

More than 300 TSA staff have resigned during the DHS shutdown, with increased absences causing airport delays.

Key Facts

• Over 300 TSA employees have quit since the latest DHS shutdown began.
• Around 50,000 TSA employees are required to work without pay during the shutdown, according to internal statistics.
• TSA officer call-out rates have reached double-digit percentages at some airports.
• At Houston's Hobby Airport, about half of TSA officers have called out, straining operations.
• Longer security lines have been reported at airports due to increased absences.

What Happened

Since the start of the DHS shutdown, more than 300 TSA staff have resigned, and absenteeism among remaining officers has increased, leading to operational challenges at airports.

Why It Matters

The resignations and high absentee rates are affecting airport security screening, resulting in longer wait times and potential disruptions for travelers. The situation highlights the impact of the shutdown on essential services.

What's Next

Continued staff shortages and unpaid work may further strain airport operations if the shutdown persists. Observers are monitoring for additional resignations or operational delays.