The partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security entered its 40th day Wednesday, with Transportation Security Administration staffing shortages causing significant delays at airports nationwide. Some airports are now advising travelers to arrive up to four hours before their scheduled flights due to extended security wait times.

The shutdown affects multiple agencies within DHS, including TSA, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the Coast Guard, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. TSA workers have been working without pay throughout the shutdown period, leading to increased absenteeism. At Houston's airport, 36% of TSA officers called out, according to reports.

Top officials from the affected agencies testified before Congress on Wednesday as lawmakers continued negotiations over funding. House Homeland Security Committee Chair Andrew Garbarino said the shutdown has caused "massive disruptions" across airports and "weakened our nation's cybersecurity posture." He also noted concerns about federal support for upcoming major events, including the FIFA World Cup, with less than 100 days until some events begin.

Senate Republicans have proposed funding most of DHS while excluding Immigration and Customs Enforcement's deportation division. Democrats have rejected this proposal, seeking reforms to ICE's immigration enforcement practices as part of any funding agreement. The disagreement over immigration policy remains the primary obstacle to resolving the shutdown.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby criticized lawmakers for the prolonged impasse, calling it "unconscionable" that Congress has not reached a funding deal. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy urged senators not to leave for recess without resolving the shutdown, stating "You're really putting America in jeopardy."

The shutdown represents one of the longest lapses in DHS funding, with no clear resolution in sight as both parties maintain their positions on immigration enforcement policies.