WATCH Personnel Act of 2026

The WATCH Personnel Act of 2026 establishes a minimum annual salary of $40,000 for Transportation Security Officers and requires future salary adjustments based on inflation data. To address potential funding gaps, the bill provides continuing appropriations to ensure these officers receive their standard pay and benefits during any period when regular government funding is unavailable. Additionally, the legislation authorizes a one-time $10,000 bonus for officers working as of February 14, 2026, though this bonus is explicitly excluded from calculations for retirement and other employee benefits. The law takes effect retroactively as if it were passed on February 13, 2026, ensuring immediate financial stability for the Transportation Security Administration workforce.