TSA agents at a quiet, partially closed airport security checkpoint.
A top TSA union leader has warned that airport security risks are poised to “get worse” due to the ongoing government shutdown and political standoff over Homeland Security funding. This comes as unpaid TSA agents are leaving their jobs, raising concerns about potential security gaps during major travel events.
George Borek, a TSA union leader, stated that the TSA has been under a hiring freeze since last year. He noted that the agency has already seen some agents leave or retire during the lapse in funding, and the acting director signaled that over 400 agents have indicated they are leaving. Borek anticipates the number of departures will grow significantly.
The TSA is struggling to replace those who have left due to the time it takes to certify agents for checkpoint duty. This issue could intensify as the busiest travel season approaches, along with an expected surge in international travelers arriving in the U.S. for the FIFA World Cup this summer.
Borek also raised concerns about the agency’s resources after the funding dispute is resolved, questioning whether the TSA will have the necessary resources to perform their jobs effectively.
TSA agents have been working without pay since the partial government shutdown began, leading airports like Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta to find ways to support agents facing financial difficulties. The core of the problem lies in a political disagreement in Washington over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which has raised concerns about potential security vulnerabilities as the government shutdown continues without a clear resolution.
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