Emergency bill would keep TSA funded and set $40,000 pay floor

What does this do?

HR 8902 provides temporary emergency funding to the Transportation Security Administration after its normal appropriations lapsed on February 14, 2026. The bill remains in effect until Congress passes a full budget or until September 30, 2026, whichever comes first. It also sets a $40,000 annual minimum salary for Transportation Security Officers with inflation-tied increases and provides a one-time $1,000 bonus to officers employed on February 14, 2026.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects approximately 60,000 TSA employees, especially frontline officers who screen passengers and baggage at airports. Travelers moving through airport security checkpoints could be indirectly affected by any changes to TSA staffing or operations.

Why does it matter?

Without this bill, TSA workers could face delayed or missed paychecks during the funding gap. TSA operations and staffing levels depend on this funding remaining in place, which in turn affects airport security nationwide.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Emergency federal funds cover TSA pay gap
• $1,000 one-time bonus per eligible officer
• Bonus excluded from retirement benefits