Overview
- Budget documents released March 31 request $11.7 billion for TSA and a reduction of 8,385 positions and 9,439 FTEs compared with 2026.
- The plan would shift smaller airports into TSA’s Screening Partnership Program that uses private contractors, with the White House estimating $52 million in savings and more than 4,500 federal roles replaced.
- TSA details cuts including 2,462 Transportation Security Officer positions, reassignment away from exit-lane staffing that the agency says saves $97.3 million, and a pledge to keep mission-critical posts.
- Even with fewer staff, the request funds new tools, including $225.9 million for Computed Tomography scanners, $48.1 million to replace aging screening systems, and $20 million for e-Gates that automate ID checks.
- The proposal follows a DHS funding lapse that left TSA officers unpaid, drove more than 500 resignations, and produced wait times over four hours before a presidential directive restored pay, while unions warn privatization puts profit over security and supporters argue it boosts efficiency at about 20 SPP airports today.