Law Enforcement to Receive ‘Super Checks’ Amid Ongoing Shutdown

URGENT UPDATE: Law enforcement officials, including those from ICE and the border patrol, will receive “super checks” during the ongoing government shutdown, as confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today. This critical move comes as many federal workers face financial uncertainty, with some approaching their fourth week without pay.

Funds for these payments will be drawn from the administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Officials stated that over 70,000 law enforcement employees—including agents from ICE, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Secret Service—are set to receive their payments by October 22, 2023.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the administration’s commitment to support law enforcement during these challenging times, stating, “President Trump and I will always stand by law enforcement, and today we are keeping our promise to always support them by making sure they are paid during the Democrats’ shutdown.”

The “super checks” will compensate selected law enforcement officers for the current pay cycle, covering the first few days of the shutdown and any overtime worked. Meanwhile, the majority of federal workers remain furloughed or working without pay, raising significant concerns about their financial stability.

According to DHS estimates, around 19,626 of the 21,028 total ICE employees are still working, either with or without pay. Similarly, approximately 63,243 out of 67,792 CBP employees continue their duties despite the funding lapse.

The decision to pay law enforcement builds on pre-shutdown contingency plans. As the Trump administration deploys ICE agents to cities like Chicago and Portland, the ongoing financial strain is palpable among federal employees. Many workers have expressed anxiety over their ability to meet daily expenses, with some reporting that they can no longer afford essential items like fuel.

In a statement, Johnny Jones, a TSA worker and president of local 1040 for the American Federation of Government Employees, highlighted the urgency of the situation: “Gas stations don’t take IOUs. This is the last tank of gas I’m going to have until I get paid again.”

While law enforcement and military personnel are receiving paychecks, employees at most federal agencies—including the Social Security Administration, the Centers for Disease Control, and NASA—are not being compensated. These workers received only prorated checks for hours worked prior to the shutdown and are uncertain about receiving back pay for any time worked after October 1.

The ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2023, continues to disrupt essential services across the nation. Without a Senate budget agreement, the stalemate shows no signs of resolution, potentially leading to further complications in public services, such as postal operations, national parks, and airport functions.

The longest shutdown in U.S. history lasted 35 days in 2018, and as the current standoff drags on, the impact on federal workers and the general public is becoming increasingly severe.

As developments unfold, it remains crucial for Americans to stay informed about the implications of the shutdown and how it affects federal services and employees. The urgency of the situation underscores the need for a swift resolution to protect the livelihoods of those serving the nation.