GREAT FALLS, Mont. — A local dive bar in Great Falls is stepping up to support federal workers impacted by the ongoing government shutdown — by offering them a meal now and letting them pay later.

Backroads Bar and Grill, a small, family-owned business known for its Filipino-American menu, is offering federal employees the option to open a tab and delay payment until two paychecks after the shutdown ends.

“What we want to do is hold your tab,” said owner Adam Hawley. “You don’t have to pay today. Once you get to your second paycheck after the shutdown, then we’ll charge you.”

Hawley, who owns the bar with his wife, is a former Air Force service member. He said he understands the financial strain that can come with a missed paycheck — especially for those just starting out.

“It was 1999

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