Kristi Noem Announces $1 Billion TSA Modernization and $10,000 Bonuses for Shutdown Workers

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — November 24, 2025 — Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Sunday unveiled a $1 billion plan to modernize Transportation Security Administration (TSA) equipment nationwide and awarded $10,000 bonuses to select TSA employees who served during the recent federal government shutdown.

Speaking at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, Noem praised TSA workers for their dedication throughout the 43-day shutdown, which ended earlier this month. She highlighted their commitment to maintaining security standards despite the challenges posed by the prolonged government closure.

“What we saw during that time period was remarkable,” Noem said. “We saw people who recognized that their purpose was to serve people, was to go out and continue to show up for work — sometimes taking on extra shifts, taking care of other individuals, but still making sure that we were keeping people safe and keeping our security systems and standards high.”

The $10,000 bonuses are intended to reward those employees who went above and beyond during the shutdown. Noem emphasized that these individuals serve as examples for others within the department.

In addition to the bonuses, Noem announced a significant investment in TSA technology, including new scanning equipment, X-ray machines, and Advanced Imaging Technology. She noted that it has been over a decade, possibly 15 years, since the department has allocated such resources toward upgrading security technology.

“We will be putting over $1 billion into new scanning equipment, new X-ray equipment, [Advanced Imaging Technology] equipment,” Noem said. “This will be coming and being deployed over the next many months.”

The modernization initiative aims to enhance airport safety and enable TSA workers to perform their duties more accurately and efficiently. Noem first mentioned the investment during remarks at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas the previous day, describing the funds as supporting “new technology and advancements in security systems.”

The announcement underscores the department’s commitment to strengthening transportation security infrastructure while recognizing the efforts of TSA employees during a challenging period for federal workers.