Key Highlights
- Air traffic controller Jack Criss is working as a DoorDash delivery driver to cover his daughter’s high school tuition during the ongoing government shutdown.
- The second-longest government shutdown in modern history has led to air traffic controllers receiving partial pay and facing the possibility of missing their first full paychecks next week.
- Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy discourages air traffic controllers from taking on side hustles but acknowledges the financial stress workers are under.
- Air traffic controllers’ staffing shortages have been reported, with the Department of Transportation noting that delays and cancellations may occur due to lack of proper staffing levels.
Government Shutdown Hits Air Traffic Controllers Hard
The second-longest government shutdown in modern history has taken a significant toll on federal employees like air traffic controller Jack Criss, who is now working as a DoorDash delivery driver to cover his daughter’s high school tuition. The ongoing shutdown has forced many workers to seek alternative income sources and tap into personal resources just to make ends meet.
Financial Strain for Federal Workers
With the government shutdown entering its 26th day, air traffic controllers have been receiving partial pay but are expected to miss their first full paychecks next week. This situation has created immense financial stress for workers who rely on these paychecks to support their families.
Side Hustles and Financial Challenges
Air traffic controller Jack Criss, a single father of one, has been forced to take up a side gig as a DoorDash delivery driver. He explained the situation in an interview with CBS Saturday Mornings: “It’s been incredibly difficult. You can feel the tension, and it’s heavy… and it hurts.” Criss mentioned that he has tapped into his retirement funds and taken out a high-interest loan to ensure financial stability during this extended shutdown.
Impact on Air Traffic Safety
The Department of Transportation has reported an uptick in sick calls from air traffic controllers, leading to staffing shortages at some airports. Secretary Sean Duffy acknowledged the strain: “Safety is paramount for us and so if we don’t have the staffing levels in a tower, TRACON or center, you will see us delay traffic; you will see us cancel flights.” Despite these challenges, Duffy discouraged air traffic controllers from taking on additional side jobs to focus on their demanding positions.
Government’s Response and Support
In response to the financial pressures faced by workers like Jack Criss, DoorDash reached out to offer him $10,000 to help pay for his daughter’s education. However, even with this support, Criss is still considering keeping his DoorDash job due to its critical role in meeting his family’s needs.
The ongoing shutdown has raised questions about the government’s ability to effectively manage essential services and protect workers’ financial stability during prolonged funding lapses. As the situation continues, there remains significant uncertainty for federal employees like Jack Criss and the broader impact on public service delivery.
