UPDATE: In a crucial move, the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that select federal law enforcement agents, including those from ICE and Customs and Border Protection, will receive “super checks” as the government shutdown continues. Payments will begin processing by October 22, offering vital relief to over 70,000 agents and officers who have been working without pay.
This announcement comes as the shutdown stretches into its fourth week, leaving most federal employees in financial uncertainty. The “super checks” include compensation for the current pay cycle, back pay for the initial days of the shutdown, and any accrued overtime. This funding is drawn from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allocates billions to support the Department of Homeland Security’s mission.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “President Trump and I will always stand by law enforcement,” emphasizing the administration’s commitment to ensuring that these essential workers are compensated during the ongoing crisis. As the shutdown persists, it has significantly impacted the livelihoods of countless federal workers.
While law enforcement personnel will see their “super checks” deposited soon, the majority of federal employees remain furloughed or working without pay. Among them, approximately 19,626 of 21,028 ICE employees and 63,243 of 67,792 CBP workers are still on duty but without compensation.
Military personnel are also receiving paychecks, which began in mid-October, following the approval from the White House to utilize leftover funds from the Pentagon’s budget. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, as Congress has not formally approved troop pay.
The situation for non-law enforcement federal workers is increasingly dire. Many have reported severe anxiety over their financial situations, with some stating, “Gas stations don’t take IOUs,” highlighting the urgency of their plight. Workers at agencies like the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Disease Control are among those who received only a prorated paycheck earlier this month, with no clear path to back pay for hours worked after the shutdown began on October 1.
As the government remains at a standstill, the impact extends beyond federal employees. Disruptions in services at post offices, national parks, and airports are expected to continue without a budget agreement. The longest government shutdown in U.S. history lasted 35 days, and without immediate action, this shutdown could exceed that duration.
While the administration’s efforts to protect law enforcement salaries may provide temporary relief, the broader implications of the shutdown are significant and far-reaching. The urgency of the situation demands immediate attention as lawmakers are urged to find a resolution. Updates on the evolving situation will follow as they become available.
