TSA should stand alone the same way USPS does

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Why USPS keeps running

Self-funded: USPS operates mostly on its own revenue (postage, shipping services), not annual congressional appropriations.

Independent structure: It’s an independent agency, so it doesn’t rely on the same funding pipeline that shuts down during budget lapses.

What that means during a shutdown
Mail delivery continues (letters, packages, etc.)
Post offices stay open
USPS employees keep working and getting paid

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USPS is different because:

It was reorganized by the Postal Reorganization Act
It operates more like a business within government

USPS has powers most agencies don’t:

Sets postage prices (with oversight)
Signs contracts
Manages its own workforce and operations
Owns and maintains its infrastructure

It’s overseen by a Board of Governors (kind of like a corporate board)

“Independent” does not mean private:

It is still a federal entity
It must provide universal service (deliver everywhere in the U.S.)
Leadership is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate
Congress can still pass laws affecting it

The goal was to balance:

Reliability as a public service
Efficiency of a business

So USPS can keep operating continuously and avoid being disrupted by political budget fights (like shutdowns)

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The standard TSA fee included in most U.S. airline tickets is $5.60 per one-way trip ($11.20 maximum per round trip), known as the September 11th Security Fee. However, as of February 1, 2026, passengers lacking a valid REAL ID or passport must pay an additional $45 fee for alternative identity verification (TSA ConfirmID).

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