TSA officers will not be allowed to sit during ID checks at US airports

US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers will no longer be permitted to sit while verifying identification at checkpoints at US airports, according to the agency and the American Federation of Government Employees TSA Council 100. The union criticized the move, stating that it disregards workers' rights and safety and noted that chairs provide essential ergonomic and safety support for officers who stand and walk on hard surfaces throughout their shifts.

TSA confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the change reinforces their security posture and commitment to hospitality by keeping officers alert and on their feet. All TSA officers must meet fitness for duty requirements to carry out their critical national security responsibilities. President Donald Trump proposed significant budget cuts to the TSA in April, including the removal of over 9,400 workers and $1.5 billion from the annual budget.

The TSA, which employs 60,000 people, handles airport security operations nationwide. About 20 airports, including those in San Francisco, Kansas City, and Sarasota, Florida, have utilized private security screeners for years. The US Senate confirmed David Cummins, a senior vice president of Serco, a UK-based multinational, to lead the TSA in August.

President Trump fired TSA head David Pekoske on his first day in office and did not appoint a replacement for 16 months. A government shutdown in spring forced 50,000 TSA workers to go six weeks without pay, causing major disruptions, including security line waits of up to four hours.