Tyler Perry Gift Cards Recalled from TSA Workers Over Ethics Rules

TSA workers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are being asked to return $1,000 gift cards donated by filmmaker Tyler Perry, after federal officials determined the gifts violate ethics rules.

The situation began last week when Perry visited the airport to help Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees who had been working without pay during the ongoing partial government shutdown. His initial plan to give cash directly to workers was blocked because federal employees are not allowed to accept monetary gifts.

Perry’s team then worked with human resources staff, legal advisors, and union representatives to find an alternative. On Friday, March 27, they returned with about $250,000 in $1,000 Visa gift cards, which were distributed to roughly 250 TSA workers.

However, by Sunday, March 29, the airport’s federal security director raised concerns about whether the gift cards were allowed. The Department of Homeland Security later confirmed that gift cards are considered “cash equivalents” and are also prohibited under federal ethics rules.

As of March 30 and 31, TSA workers have been told they must return the cards.

The recall has created confusion and stress among employees. Many workers had already spent some or all of the money on basic needs such as groceries, gas, and bills after weeks without pay. It is not yet clear how the agency will handle cases where the funds have already been used.

Union representatives said the donation had initially boosted morale among workers facing financial strain. The decision to take the cards back has had the opposite effect, leaving many uncertain about what comes next.

At the same time, some financial relief has begun to arrive. On March 27, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at addressing staffing issues at airports. As a result, many TSA workers started receiving partial back pay on Monday, March 30.

Under existing federal ethics rules, employees generally cannot accept gifts valued over $20 from a single source, with a yearly limit of $50. These rules apply even during a government shutdown.

Tyler Perry has not yet publicly commented on the decision to recall the gift cards.