Helena Regional Airport asks for donations for TSA agents

HELENA, Mont. - The Helena Regional Airport asked local residents to donate to its TSA agents in a social media post on Monday. TSA agents have been unpaid since the Department of Homeland Security shutdown began on February 14.

"With the ongoing government shutdown, many of our TSA team members are continuing to serve without pay," the airport wrote. We’re proud of their dedication and want to support them during this challenging time." 

Approved donations include non-perishable food items and ready-to-eat meals, as well as gift cards each valued at $20 or less. Cash donations cannot be accepted. 

"Donations can be dropped off at the Helena Regional Airport Administration Office, located on the second floor of the terminal building, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM," the airport said. 

Multiple bills have been introduced in the Senate that would fully fund TSA as negotiations about ICE funding continue, but they have all failed to pass. Most recently, a bill to fund TSA was put to a vote on Friday, and it failed 41-49 across party lines with every Senate Republican voting against the measure.