A breakthrough in Washington could soon ease airport headaches for San Diego travelers. Senators moved Tuesday toward a deal that would restore funding to most of the Department of Homeland Security, including Transportation Security Administration workers who have been going without pay since the funding lapse began in mid-February.
The proposal under consideration would fund the bulk of DHS, including TSA and Customs and Border Protection, but would exclude a portion of Immigration and Customs Enforcement enforcement and removal operations. Democrats had insisted on guardrails tied to ICE conduct, including a requirement that officers wear body cameras and identification during operations. More than 3,200 TSA workers missed shifts Monday and at least 458 have quit since the shutdown began, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Long security lines have gripped major U.S. airports, with travelers in Houston, Atlanta, and Baltimore advised to arrive hours early. The MyTSA app and other public sources may show outdated wait times since the agency has not been actively updating its websites during the shutdown.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune signaled a vote could come quickly, saying the time to end this is now. But President Trump cast doubt on the talks, saying he was not happy with whatever deal Congress would strike. Any Senate agreement would also need to pass the House.
For San Diego travelers with spring break plans or upcoming trips, arriving early and checking wait times directly through SAN remains the safest bet. The situation could improve quickly once a deal is signed.
