Urgent Update: ICE Agents to Receive ‘Super Checks’ Amid Shutdown

UPDATE: In a critical move during the ongoing government shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that select federal law enforcement agents, including those from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will receive “super checks” by October 22, 2023. This urgent decision comes as many federal workers face their fourth week without pay, exacerbating financial insecurity for hundreds of thousands across the nation.

The “super checks” will provide compensation for the current pay cycle, covering the initial days of the shutdown and any applicable overtime. More than 70,000 law enforcement personnel, including border patrol agents and air marshals, are set to benefit from this payment as they continue to serve amid the shutdown. A DHS spokesperson confirmed the details to Business Insider.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the administration’s commitment to law enforcement, stating, “President Trump and I will always stand by law enforcement… Today, we are keeping our promise to support them during the Democrats’ shutdown.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing political tension surrounding the shutdown, which has left many federal employees—especially at agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and others—furloughed or working without pay.

As of now, approximately 19,626 of 21,028 ICE employees are expected to remain on duty, while 63,243 of 67,792 CBP workers are also actively serving. The funding for these payments derives from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allocates resources for DHS operations through 2029. The administration’s decision to prioritize law enforcement pay reflects a strategy to maintain operational readiness despite the financial crisis affecting other federal employees.

In stark contrast, most federal workers are facing increasing anxiety over financial stability. Johnny Jones, a TSA worker, expressed the dire situation, saying, “Gas stations don’t take IOUs… This is my last fill-up and I won’t have any money.” Employees at various agencies, including the Social Security Administration and Centers for Disease Control, have received prorated checks but are uncertain about future compensation.

Military personnel have also begun receiving their pay, following the White House’s approval to utilize leftover funds for payroll. This move has sparked controversy among lawmakers, as Congress has yet to approve specific funding for troop salaries during the shutdown.

Without a budget agreement in sight, the government shutdown is expected to prolong, impacting services ranging from postal operations to national parks. The longest shutdown in U.S. history lasted 35 days in 2018, raising concerns about the potential for similar disruptions this time around.

The urgency of this situation is palpable, as the financial strain on federal employees continues to mount. As the administration navigates the complexities of funding during this shutdown, the human impact remains significant, with many workers struggling to make ends meet.

Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.