Transportation Security Administration

Rule Changes

Defending the standing policy while facing a union bargaining demand and a Republican push to reverse it

The Transportation Security Administration has removed chairs from travel document checkers at airport checkpoints nationwide. Officers who check boarding passes and IDs must stand while working the podium, which the agency says keeps them alert and improves the passenger experience.

Updated Oct 21

Rule Changes

As of September 2026: Launched Gateside pilot program at 13 airports

Saying goodbye at airport security has marked the end of the road for visitors since the 9/11 attacks. The Transportation Security Administration's new Gateside program changes that at 13 US airports, where approved TSA PreCheck members without tickets can enter gate areas.

Updated Sep 14

New Capabilities

As of September 2026: Rolling out new security technology

TSA Administrator David Cummins says Logan Airport will get e-gates with facial comparison technology. PreCheck travelers could keep their driver's license and boarding pass in their pocket and walk through security. The agency hasn't said when.

Updated Sep 11

Rule Changes

As of May 2026: 61,000 workers paid via Trump executive order starting March 30 amid record 45-day DHS shutdown; callouts at 12.35%; other funding pending House post-recess

The U.S. Senate passed a DHS funding bill by voice vote at 2:20 a.m. on March 27, 2026. It ends the partial shutdown that began February 14 for most agencies, but leaves out ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and most U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Updated May 29