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Long security lines hit US airports amid government shutdown
Thousands of travelers faced hours-long waits at airport security checkpoints on Sunday as a partial US government shutdown left Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers working without pay. Airports in Houston and New Orleans reported severe delays during a busy spring travel period.
Shutdown impact on airport operations
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees TSA, has been without funding since February 14 after Congress failed to reach a budget agreement. While TSA officers are required to work as essential personnel, they have not received paychecks, leading to staffing shortages.
At Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans, queues extended into the parking lot, prompting officials to advise passengers to arrive at least three hours before flights. William P. Hobby Airport in Houston warned of potential three-hour waits, recommending arrivals four to five hours early.
Traveler frustrations and political blame
Social media filled with images and videos of crowded checkpoints, with travelers expressing frustration over the delays. Ben Brasch, waiting in line at New Orleans' airport, told local media, "I hope we make our flight. But I feel bad for the [airport] workers having to deal with this."
The Trump administration attributed the shutdown to Democrats, who refused to approve DHS funding without immigration reforms. DHS spokesperson Lauren Bis accused Democrats of "playing politics with national security," citing financial hardship and absences among TSA staff.
Demands for immigration policy changes stall funding
The shutdown began after Democrats rejected funding for DHS without restrictions on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). They demanded reforms following the deaths of two Minneapolis residents, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, during protests against immigration raids in January.
Proposed changes include banning ICE agents from wearing face masks, improving officer identification, and tightening warrant requirements. Senator Patty Murray stated, "Democrats want to get TSA agents paid, but we won't help Republicans cut a blank check for unchecked immigration enforcement."
Outlook for travelers and federal workers
TSA employees received partial paychecks initially but face potential unpaid leave if the shutdown persists. The delays at New Orleans and Houston airports may foreshadow similar issues nationwide as the standoff continues.
Congress has repeatedly failed to pass funding measures, leaving thousands of federal workers and travelers caught in the political dispute.
