UPDATE: Law enforcement employees at ICE, Customs and Border Protection, and other federal agencies will receive a “super check” on October 22, 2023, as the government shutdown continues to impact over 800,000 federal workers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that this urgent payment will benefit more than 70,000 law enforcement personnel, including border patrol agents and air marshals.
This development comes as most federal employees remain in limbo, with many approaching nearly four weeks without pay since the shutdown began on October 1. The funds for these payments will be drawn from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which provides crucial financial support for DHS operations over the next several years.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the commitment to support law enforcement during the shutdown, stating, “President Trump and I will always stand by law enforcement, and today we are keeping our promise.” This sentiment underscores the administration’s focus on ensuring the financial stability of these essential workers amid a chaotic political landscape.
The “super check” means eligible employees will receive full compensation for their current pay cycle, including any overtime accrued during the shutdown. This is a critical lifeline for the 19,626 of 21,028 total ICE employees and 63,243 of 67,792 CBP workers expected to work through the shutdown, either with or without pay.
In stark contrast, most federal workers across various agencies, including the TSA and the CDC, face financial uncertainty. Many are struggling to manage their bills and daily expenses. A TSA employee voiced the desperation felt by many, stating, “Gas stations don’t take IOUs.” This reflects the harsh reality for those working without pay, as they grapple with essential living costs.
While military personnel have also begun receiving paychecks, the funding for those salaries has raised concerns among lawmakers about the unilateral decision by the administration to prioritize them over other federal employees. The White House has noted that if military salaries are not paid, it could undermine the effectiveness of other appropriations.
As the government shutdown extends, the situation remains fluid. Without a budget agreement in the Senate, disruptions are likely to continue across federal services, including post offices and national parks. The longest shutdown in U.S. history lasted 35 days, and experts warn that we may be heading toward similar durations if a resolution is not reached soon.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. With the impact of the shutdown being felt nationwide, many families are anxiously awaiting clarity on when they will see their next paycheck. As developments unfold, the nation watches closely to see how this will affect essential services and the livelihoods of federal employees.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.
