H.R. 7941: Pay TSA Act of 2026

The bill, known as the Pay TSA Act of 2026, aims to enhance aviation security funding and operations by establishing a dedicated fund for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Here are the key components of the bill explained in layman's terms:

1. Purpose of the Bill

The main goal of the bill is to ensure that the fees collected from airline passengers for security (often referred to as the "9/11 Security Fee") are used solely for aviation security purposes. This is intended to improve the availability of funds for TSA operations and enhance the security measures at airports.

2. Transportation Security Trust Fund

The bill establishes a new fund called the Transportation Security Trust Fund within the Department of Homeland Security. This fund will receive all revenue generated from passenger security fees, which will be available for use without needing further legislative approval or being tied to a specific fiscal year.

3. Use of Funds

The funds in the Transportation Security Trust Fund can be used for various aviation security-related activities, including:

• Payment of salaries and benefits for TSA personnel.
• Passenger and baggage screening operations.
• Technology for security checkpoints and screening processes.
• Infrastructure and equipment for airport security.
• Research and development of advanced security systems.

The bill states that these funds cannot be diverted for other government uses or for deficit reduction, ensuring they are strictly for aviation security enhancements.

4. Continuity of Operations

If there is a lapse in appropriations (when funding bills are not passed), the funds in the Transportation Security Trust Fund will still be available to maintain TSA operations. This means that key TSA operations related to aviation security can continue uninterrupted even during government funding disputes.

5. Prioritization of Personnel Costs

The bill prioritizes the use of available funds for personnel-related expenses, such as:

• Salaries and overtime for Transportation Security Officers.
• Staffing levels to ensure efficient operation of security checkpoints.
• Other operational expenses supporting frontline security personnel.

Once personnel costs are covered, remaining funds can then be used for technology purchases and infrastructure improvements related to aviation security.

6. Aviation Security Technology and Infrastructure Account

Additionally, the bill creates an account within the Transportation Security Trust Fund specifically for aviation security technology and infrastructure. This account aims to support the modernizing and improving of screening technology and systems used in airports.

7. Authorized Uses of the Technology Account

Funds from the Aviation Security Technology and Infrastructure Account may be used for:

• Procurement of aviation security checkpoint technology.
• Advanced baggage screening systems.
• Technology for authentication of passenger credentials.
• Security infrastructure at airports.
• Grants to airports to improve their security technology.

Overall, the Pay TSA Act of 2026 is designed to create a more stable financial environment for aviation security by ensuring dedicated funding and continuous operations during funding gaps.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Company) - May be impacted as a major player in aviation manufacturing and security technology.
• RTN (Raytheon Technologies Corporation) - Likely to see an impact as it supplies aerospace and defense technology, including security systems.
• IDXX (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.) - May be affected if involved in health-related screening technologies in aviation security contexts.