A funding lapse for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would leave around 13% of the federal civilian workforce without pay, affecting agencies such as Transportation Security Administration and Federal Emergency Management Agency. The stalemate comes after Senate Democrats blocked a funding bill due to lack of new restrictions on immigration agents. Lawmakers are under pressure to reach an agreement before Friday’s deadline, with many planning to attend international conferences this week.
The White House had sent a proposal to Democrats on Wednesday, but it was met with swift dismissal. Republicans have accused Democrats of being unreasonable and asked for support of short-term funding extensions while negotiations continue. However, Democrats say they will not support any extension without new restrictions on immigration agents.
The proposed restrictions include requiring federal agents to wear identification and body cameras, as well as barring them from operating near sensitive areas such as schools and hospitals. The White House has made its own demands, including protections for federal immigration agents and measures against cities with limited cooperation with immigration authorities.
A shutdown would be the third in less than three months, following previous disputes over Affordable Care Act subsidies and government funding.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/02/12/congress-homeland-security-shutdown