TSA agents are working without pay at US airports after DHS funding lapsed

A lapse in Department of Homeland Security funding means most TSA officers are required to work without pay while lawmakers remain deadlocked; Federal Aviation Administration funding continues, so air traffic controllers will still be paid.

Funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security lapsed early Saturday, triggering a partial shutdown. As a result, most Transportation Security Administration officers are expected to continue working but will not receive pay while appropriations are unresolved. Funding for the Federal Aviation Administration remains in place, so air traffic controllers will continue to be paid. Lawmakers remain divided over Homeland Security funding, and Democrats have said they will not approve funding until new immigration restrictions are attached. What to know: - Homeland Security funding expired at midnight and the department implemented its contingency plan. - About 95% of TSA workers are designated essential and are expected to keep working without pay while appropriations are lapsed. - FAA funding continues, so air traffic controllers will receive paychecks as usual, which reduces the immediate risk of widespread flight cancellations. Summary: The lapse in DHS funding could lengthen security wait times and place additional strain on TSA personnel at airports, according to travel groups and industry experts. Undetermined at this time.