Original Legislation to Give TSA Employees a Raise
- Sponsor
- Rep. Green, Al [D-TX-9]
- Committees
- Homeland Security Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 22, 2026
Bottom line
This bill provides a significant, across-the-board 15 percent pay raise for most TSA employees, excluding senior executives and appointees, with rapid implementation.
What it actually does
This bill mandates a 15 percent increase in the annual basic pay for all career employees of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and for each pay band within the TSA Core Compensation System. This pay raise would take effect on the first pay period beginning on or after the date of enactment, but before the second pay period after enactment.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is essential for recognizing the critical role TSA employees play in national security, improving morale, and enhancing retention rates within the agency. They contend that increased pay will attract and retain highly qualified personnel, reducing turnover and improving the overall effectiveness and professionalism of the TSA workforce.
Opponents contend
Opponents might raise concerns about the significant fiscal impact of an unfunded, across-the-board 15 percent pay increase on the federal budget, especially without a clear funding mechanism. They may argue that such a large, immediate raise could set a precedent for other federal agencies and that pay adjustments should be tied to performance, market rates, or a comprehensive review rather than a flat percentage.
The bill is exceptionally brief and clear, allowing for quick comprehension by any reader.
Section 2(a)
Mandated 15% Basic Pay Increase for TSA Career Employees
This provision requires that the annual basic pay for all career employees of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) be increased by 15 percent. Additionally, it mandates a 15 percent increase for each pay band within the TSA's Core Compensation System. This ensures a broad pay raise for the majority of the TSA workforce, excluding only senior leadership.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this increase is vital for fair compensation, boosting morale, and reducing high turnover rates among TSA personnel who perform critical security functions. They believe it will enhance the agency's ability to recruit and retain a skilled workforce.
Critics contend
Critics may argue that a 15% increase is substantial and could strain federal resources without a specified funding offset. They might suggest that such a large, uniform increase may not be the most efficient way to address pay disparities or performance incentives.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the goal of improving employee compensation and retention against the fiscal implications of a significant, unfunded federal pay raise.
Section 2(b)(2)
Definition of 'Career Employee' for Pay Increase Eligibility
This section defines 'career employee' to include any career agent or officer of the TSA, specifically excluding senior executives, career appointees, or senior career employees as defined in existing law (49 U.S.C. 114(n)(2)). This clarifies that the pay raise is targeted at the frontline and mid-level workforce, rather than the highest-ranking officials within the agency.
The pay increase takes effect on the first pay period beginning on or after the date of enactment, but before the beginning of the second pay period beginning after the date of enactment.
Section 2(b)(1)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for specifying precise effective dates, but the specific wording ensures a rapid implementation, which could be overlooked.
Case for: Supporters would argue that a rapid implementation is crucial to immediately address morale and retention issues, demonstrating a swift commitment to improving employee welfare.
Case against: Critics might argue that such a tight window for implementation could pose administrative challenges for the agency in processing the pay adjustments accurately and efficiently.
Estimated impact: Ensures the pay raise is implemented almost immediately after the bill becomes law, impacting the timing of increased federal expenditures.