The head of the Transportation Security Administration union, Kevin Smith, has warned that more staff departures may occur if the Department of Homeland Security shutdown continues. Smith, who represents TSA agents at Indianapolis International Airport, reported seeing as many as half a dozen more agents call out sick several times last week, double or triple the number who are normally out. He suspects this may be due to agents trying to save up money for gas to come to work. The Department for Homeland Security has reported that about 300 TSA employees have quit nationwide since the shutdown began on Feb. 14. Most of the affected DHS employees are considered essential and are working without pay rather than being furloughed. The airport and airlines are still providing meals to TSA agents during their shifts, which increases morale and provides them one free meal per day. Smith urges public pressure on the Senate to pass legislation to fund DHS.