DHS Eliminates TSA Collective Bargaining Agreement Again
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is once again attempting to eliminate the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees. This move occurs despite the ongoing legal dispute regarding a previous effort to dissolve the union agreement.
DHS’s New Labor Framework Announcement
On December 12, 2025, DHS announced that a new labor framework would be implemented on January 11, 2026. This framework will replace the existing 2024 CBA between TSA and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).
Reasons Behind the Decision
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the decision is influenced by a determination made on September 29, emphasizing that collective bargaining is incompatible with TSA’s national security mission. According to TSA, this change aims to enhance resources, flexibility, and security effectiveness while improving the overall traveler experience.
Impact on Transportation Security Officers
- Noem’s determination indicates that TSA employees involved in security screening will not participate in collective bargaining.
- The TSA claims that focusing on their mission is crucial to maintaining traveler safety.
- Adam Stahl, TSA’s deputy administrator, highlighted the need for officers to prioritize security duties over non-critical tasks.
Reactions to the Announcement
AFGE, which represents approximately 47,000 airport screeners, condemned the announcement. National President Everett Kelley noted that just a month ago, Secretary Noem praised TSA officers for their dedication during a significant government shutdown. Instead, her latest announcement appears to strip those officers of their union rights.
The union has faced challenges previously, as a federal judge blocked DHS’s effort to dissolve the CBA earlier this year. This legal battle is expected to go to trial in September 2026.
AFGE’s Position
- Kelley affirmed that AFGE will actively challenge DHS’s actions.
- He urged the Senate to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act promptly.
Background on TSA’s Labor Agreements
TSA employees have different statutory rights compared to other federal workers. However, in response to high attrition rates, former TSA Administrator David Pekoske expanded collective bargaining rights in 2022 to align more closely with Title 5 of the U.S. Code. An agreement was reached and signed last year, establishing essential benefits for employees.
Consequences of Revoking the CBA
Hydrick Thomas, President of AFGE Council 100, criticized the revocation of the CBA, labeling it a significant setback for TSA employees. The union argues that prior to establishing the union contract, many workers faced hostile work conditions that negatively impacted morale and attrition rates. Since implementing the contract, the workforce stability has increased and security incidents have declined.
Future Employment Policies
In response to the upcoming changes, TSA announced that their internal policies will now govern employment matters that were previously regulated by the 2024 CBA. The agency assures that employee concerns will continue to be addressed efficiently under the new framework.
