Summary
Provides necessary funds to pay Transportation Security Administration employees their regular salary and benefits during a government shutdown.
What problem does this solve?
During a government shutdown, essential TSA employees must work without pay, which causes financial problems for them and their families. This bill sets aside money to ensure TSA workers continue to receive their regular pay and benefits during a funding gap.
Who does this affect?
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees
- Air travelers
What does this bill do?
Provides funding for TSA employee pay
Allocates the necessary money from the Treasury to cover standard pay, allowances, and benefits for all TSA employees during a government funding gap.
Sets conditions for ending the funding
The special funding ends when a new government budget is passed, a decision is made not to fund the TSA, or on September 30, 2026, whichever happens first.
Charges costs to future TSA budgets
Requires that any money spent under this act will be taken from the TSA's regular budget once it is officially approved and signed into law.
Makes the act effective retroactively
Sets the effective date to February 13, 2026, ensuring there is no gap in pay authority if the bill is signed after a shutdown begins.
What is the real world impact?
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Protects federal workers and ensures airport security
Prevents TSA employees from working without pay during a government shutdown. This supports their financial well-being and helps maintain consistent security operations at the nation's airports.
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Reduces political pressure during shutdowns
By ensuring TSA agents are paid, the bill lessens the public impact of a government shutdown. This could reduce the urgency for Congress to negotiate and pass a full budget, potentially allowing shutdowns to last longer.
When does this start?
This bill would take effect as if passed on February 13, 2026, and includes several key dates for funding.
Funding start date
Funding for TSA pay begins on February 14, 2026, if a government shutdown occurs.
Funding termination date
Funding will stop on September 30, 2026, or when a new appropriations act is passed, whichever comes first.
Retroactive effective date
The law is considered effective as of February 13, 2026, to prevent any pay gaps.