Congressman Jeff Miller (R-FL-01) today announced that the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security has successfully reported to the full committee H.R. 2179, which would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to transfer unclaimed money recovered at airport security checkpoints to United Service Organizations (USO) for its airport programs in support of the military.
“The TSA has been keeping the money from your change purse to pay for their bloated bureaucracy,†said Miller. “If TSA representatives get to play ‘finders keepers’ with your hard-earned cash, what’s the incentive to try to get the loose change to its rightful owners?â€
In Fiscal Year 2010, over $400,000 was collected at TSA airport security checkpoints. Travelers’ lost change has been used to supplement the TSA budget. H.R. 2179 would require those monies to be transferred to the USO to support of our Armed Forces.
The USO is a non-profit organization that is chartered by the U.S. Congress. Each USO airport center provides a place for servicemen and women to enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, connect with family, and utilize the services provided by the USO. Last year, USO centers were visited over 8 million times.
“Congressman Miller is a strong advocate for our men and women in uniform, and I commend him today for this bill that will help support the USO that serves our military as they leave and return in our airports. I am pleased this bill passed the subcommittee today,†said Transportation Security Subcommittee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-AL-03).
“I would much rather see unclaimed change go to help military personnel on their way to and from the battlefield,†Miller added. “The lost change should be put to good use, and I know the USO will make those thousands of coins have a positive impact on millions of our nation’s warriors. I applaud Chairman Rogers’ efforts in helping to get this bill through committee, and I look forward to its final passage.