Union Protests Chair Removal at Albany Airport
American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) leaders have condemned the recent directive that stripped chairs from TSA checkpoints at Albany airport, saying the move has sparked anger among staff and is harming morale.
TSA’s Justification and the Morale Pledge
The agency announced on 25 September that it would require officers to stand at travel‑document verification points, claiming that a standing posture “reinforces professionalism, attentiveness and active engagement with passengers” and that it “reinforces both our security posture and our commitment to hospitality.” In response, AFGE officials noted that the change was introduced without consultation, violating the usual bargaining process. Johnny Jones, secretary‑treasurer of AFGE TSA council 100 and president of AFGE local 1040, said: “People are pissed,” and added that members have been flooded with calls describing the sudden removal of seating as “almost similar to when we have government shutdowns.” He also warned that the policy leaves officers without a place to rest during long shifts, especially those who need light‑duty accommodations.
Rationale Behind the Policy and Its Impact
TSA officials argue that standing improves alertness and security effectiveness, yet the union points out that chairs remain available at x‑ray stations because manufacturers recommend seated operation. Hydrick Thomas, president of AFGE TSA council 100, stated: “Our officers screen millions of people a day and they do it right, sitting or standing. Nobody who works a checkpoint asked for this. Nobody who flies asked for this.” The union further criticised the simultaneous rollout of a morale pledge that obliges staff to “support the well‑being and morale of our colleagues,” describing it as an additional insult after the unilateral chair removal.
Historical Precedents and Recent Turbulence
This dispute is the latest in a series of tensions between TSA staff and the Trump administration. Two attempts to cancel the collective bargaining agreement were halted by a January court ruling that found the administration’s moves breached an existing injunction. TSA workers have also endured two government shutdowns since the former president took office, including a full shutdown from 1 October to 12 November 2025 and a 76‑day partial shutdown from February to April 2026, both leaving officers without pay. Additionally, the administration’s push to expand the TSA Gold+ programme, which contracts out checkpoint duties to private firms, has drawn criticism; Tampa airport abandoned its participation after public backlash.
Why it Matters
The chair‑removal episode underscores a broader erosion of worker dignity within the TSA, a critical component of national security infrastructure. Diminished morale and the lack of basic seating can impair performance, increase fatigue, and ultimately affect the travelling public’s experience, while also exposing the agency to legal and reputational risks as unions mobilise to demand the restoration of ergonomic workstations.