Over 300 TSA employees leave as airport absences surge amid DHS shutdown: Report

The ongoing Department of Homeland Security shutdown has led to a significant increase in unscheduled absences among TSA officers, with the nationwide call-out rate rising to an average of 6% during the lapse. This surge is attributed to the lack of pay for over 50,000 transportation security officers and compounded by extreme weather events like blizzards. The situation has resulted in operational challenges at airports across the country, including longer wait times for travelers and disruptions to expedited traveller programs. TSA officials warn that the prolonged shutdown could have lasting effects on the workforce, leading to further staffing shortages and potentially impacting airport security operations.