Senate Floor·Last action 190 days ago

Bill would keep FAA and TSA pay going during a 2026 shutdown

Officially: Keep America Flying Act of 2026

Key FAA and TSA workers would keep getting paid during a federal shutdown in fiscal year 2026. Some supporting contractors could also be paid. The temporary funding would stop once Congress passes the usual funding laws or by September 30, 2026.

Where it stands

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Your representatives are deciding where they stand. A few messages can tip the balance.

What this bill actually does

Sets up automatic temporary funding for fiscal year 2026 if Congress has not passed regular or short-term spending bills yet.
Keeps normal pay, extra pay, benefits, and similar payments going for essential FAA staff, including air traffic controllers.
Keeps normal pay, extra pay, benefits, and similar payments going for TSA workers who screen passengers or bags, handle aviation security, or do support work tied to that job.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is moving through Congress right now — your representative needs to hear from you.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Maintains Aviation Safety: Ensures air traffic controllers and other essential FAA personnel continue to receive pay, preventing disruptions and maintaining safe skies.
Preserves National Security: Guarantees TSA employees are paid, so airport security remains fully operational, reducing vulnerability to threats.
Prevents Economic Losses: Avoids flight delays and cancellations that can cost millions of dollars per day.

✕Arguments against

Budgetary Impact: Creates a precedent for "piecemeal" funding, potentially undermining broader budget negotiations.
Equity Issues: Prioritizes aviation and TSA workers over other federal employees, raising fairness concerns.
Potential for Abuse: Could incentivize more frequent shutdowns if critical functions are protected.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

Latest: Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 205. (10/22/2025)

OCT 22

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Bill would keep FAA and TSA pay going during a 2026 shutdown

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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