Noem Grants $10,000 Bonuses to Thousands of TSA Agents

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem is set to announce significant bonuses for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents who maintained their roles during the recent government shutdown. The planned announcement will reveal $10,000 bonuses for several thousand agents recognized for their high performance during this period.

Noem’s Announcement Details

The announcement is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at a Houston airport, coinciding with the conclusion of a lengthy 43-day government shutdown. Sources within the administration, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, highlighted that the bonuses are based on performance evaluations conducted by supervisors.

Bonus Eligibility Criteria

• The bonuses will be awarded to TSA agents with high performance marks.
• It remains unclear if 100% attendance is mandatory for receipt of the bonuses.

This initiative follows a similar recommendation from President Donald Trump, which involved bonus payouts for air traffic controllers noted for their perfect attendance during the shutdown.

Funding Sources for Bonuses

According to an internal memo from the Department of Homeland Security, the funds designated for these bonuses will derive from carry-over funds allocated for fiscal year 2025. The specifics of this financial arrangement highlight the government’s commitment to rewarding essential personnel during challenging times.

Official Comments

While the White House refrained from issuing a direct comment regarding the bonuses, queries directed to the Department of Homeland Security went unanswered. The move is part of a broader acknowledgment of the dedication shown by TSA agents amid the difficulties imposed by the government operating limitations.