American Federation of Government Employees Transportation Security Administration Council 100 Secretary-Treasurer Johnny Jones joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed a $398 million funding increase for Transportation Security Officers (TSOs).
On Dec. 29, President Biden signed the 2023 omnibus government funding bill into law and will reward the underpaid TSOs who work for the Transportation Secruity Administration average raise of 30 percent.
Jones spent more than 20 years as a TSO and earned unlivable wages and non-existent employee benefits. He said he has made it his life mission to join union activists across the country to fight for an increase in TSO wages. Jones added that TSOs put their lives at risk every day to help keep Americans safe, and they deserve a liveable wage to ensure the security of their own families.
Despite the wage increase, Jones discussed several other unresolved issues that must be addressed. He cited how AFGE TSA Council 100 members do not have the rights that other union members receive, including the right to to collectively bargain.
He also spoke about the unique items passengers try to bring through airport security.
Listen to today’s episode to learn more about these topics.