Airport Security Crisis Gets Worse
TSA workers have not been paid since mid-February. Many have stopped showing up for work.
Wait times at some airports have exceeded four and a half hours. This is due to TSA staff shortages caused by a funding lapse.
Top leaders testified on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, March 25. The TSA warned of serious staffing shortages at security checkpoints. Lawmakers are struggling to agree on a deal to reopen the Department of Homeland Security.
Klear Note — The TSA checks passengers at airport security. A government funding lapse means TSA workers haven't been paid. This causes staff shortages and longer airport lines.
Key Terms 4
- TSA Transport Security Administration — staff who check passengers at US airports
- Capitol Hill the building in Washington where US lawmakers meet and make decisions
- Department of Homeland Security US government body that oversees airport security and border control
- funding lapse when a government body runs out of approved money to keep operating