S-4127-119
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 362.
Sponsored by Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
What it does
This bill would provide continuing appropriations specifically to fund pay, benefits, allowances, pay differentials, and other regular compensation for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees during the partial Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown that began February 14, 2026. The appropriations would remain in effect until either a full-year or interim FY2026 DHS appropriations bill is enacted, or September 30, 2026, whichever comes first. The bill would take effect retroactively as if enacted on February 13, 2026.
Who benefits
TSA employees — approximately 60,000 workers — who would receive uninterrupted pay and benefits during the shutdown. Their families and households who depend on that income. Airlines, airports, and the broader travel industry, which depend on TSA staffing to operate security checkpoints. Travelers who would face fewer disruptions to airport screening. Contractors and local businesses near airports that depend on TSA employee spending.
Who is hurt
Other DHS employees not covered by this bill who would remain without pay during the shutdown. Taxpayers who bear the cost of the appropriations. Legislators and advocates who prefer a comprehensive DHS funding resolution rather than agency-by-agency stopgaps, as this approach may reduce pressure to reach a broader deal. Other federal workers in separate shutdown-affected agencies who receive no similar relief.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that TSA employees perform an essential national security function — screening roughly 2.5 million passengers daily — and that forcing them to work without pay creates real financial hardship and risks attrition of trained security personnel. They contend that a targeted continuing resolution protects critical infrastructure and public safety while Congress works toward a full funding agreement, and that the retroactive effective date ensures no worker suffers a gap in compensation.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that passing agency-by-agency funding bills undermines the leverage needed to reach a comprehensive FY2026 DHS appropriations agreement, potentially prolonging the overall shutdown for other DHS employees who remain unpaid. They contend that selectively funding one agency while leaving others — including other DHS workers performing equally essential functions — without pay creates inequitable outcomes and sets a precedent for piecemeal appropriations that weakens Congress's overall budget discipline.