In brief
Pressure on Congress escalates as the 41-day TSA funding shutdown continues, leading to financial hardships for unpaid TSA workers and warnings of airport closures. With key votes expected, both Republicans and Democrats express their concerns regarding immigration enforcement operations. Acting TSA Administrator McNeill highlights the alarming callout rates and challenges facing TSA staff, while Trump remains largely out of the negotiations.
WASHINGTON (PulseWire) — Pressure is mounting on Congress to end the funding shutdown that has resulted in travel disruptions, missed paychecks, and warnings of airport closures, yet lawmakers remain at an impasse over President Trump’s immigration enforcement operations.
Senators are expected to vote Thursday on a Republican proposal that aims to fund the Transportation Security Administration and much of the Department of Homeland Security, excluding enforcement operations conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, it’s anticipated that this proposal will not pass.
Democrats argue that the GOP's plan does not adequately address oversight of ICE and Customs and Border Protection, especially in light of recent protests over the administration’s immigration policies.
With Congress planning to conclude its session for a spring break, calls are intensifying for an end to the 41-day deadlock, jeopardizing the salaries of TSA officers who are currently performing their duties without pay. About 11% of TSA agents have called out of work, raising concerns about potential airport closures.
“This is a dire situation,” said acting TSA administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill. She highlighted the multiple hardships faced by TSA workers, including financial struggles, eviction notices, and even selling plasma to manage their bills. “As callout rates increase, we may have to make difficult decisions on which airports to keep open,” she warned.
Trump has largely avoided wading into negotiations, expressing dissatisfaction over the prospect of a deal. He blamed the Democrats for not compromising on their immigration demands, even after the GOP proposed a plan that included minor concessions related to the funding of ICE operations.
While the GOP's recent proposal did introduce a new policy requiring body cameras for ICE officers, it has faced criticism for excluding other Democratic demands such as officer identification and restrictions on raids in sensitive areas.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune mentioned that a more realistic offer from the Democrats could restart negotiations, while Democrats remain firm on the need for comprehensive reforms to immigration enforcement agencies.
In the meantime, TSA employees continue to struggle under increasing stressors, both financially and at work, with reports of a significant rise in assaults against them. McNeill reiterated the need for immediate action and support for TSA officers to ensure safety and efficiency at U.S. airports.
