AFGE is calling on the Senate to include full workplace rights for Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) in its transportation infrastructure bill.
The House July 1 passed its version of the transportation infrastructure bill that included language from the Rights for Transportation Security Officers Act – which passed the House earlier this year – that extends full collective bargaining rights to TSOs and ensures the nation’s airport security officers have the same workplace rights and protections as other federal workers.
TSA officers are among the lowest paid federal workers and are not on the same pay scale as their Department of Homeland Security counterparts. If enacted, this legislation would increase salaries by putting TSOs on the same General Schedule pay scale as most federal employees.
“This is a huge win for these hardworking front-line employees who have continued to risk their lives throughout the COVID-19 pandemic ensuring we safely reach our travel destinations,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “It is time for the Senate and the President to make these essential employees whole by providing the equal workplace rights and protections they deserve.”
“We risk our lives daily on the frontlines, upholding our oath to protect American travelers, airline and airport personnel and many others,” said the AFGE TSA Council 100. “Nearly 900 officers have contracted COVID-19 with five of them unfortunately dying. We need real change. It is time for the administration, the department, and Congress to do their jobs and protect us.”
AFGE, which represents 45,000 TSOs nationwide, is calling on the Senate and the administration to follow in the House’s footsteps and extend full workplace rights to TSOs.