general

DHS shutdown to continue as Congress begins two-week recess

After the Senate approved partial DHS funding that left out ICE, House Republicans rejected the plan and passed an alternative measure; with Congress on recess until mid-April the department will remain closed while the administration moves to pay TSA staff by executive action.

Mar 30th 2026 ยท United States

Insights

  • DHS has been shut for 45 days, the longest in its history.
  • The Senate unanimously approved a funding measure that excluded ICE and some CBP funding.
  • House Republicans rejected the Senate plan and passed a 60-day continuing resolution to fund all of DHS with support from three Democrats.
  • Neither chamber returns until the week of April 13, so DHS will remain shut without a negotiated agreement.
  • President Trump signed an action to pay TSA officers and TSA paychecks are scheduled to begin Monday.
  • Senators and White House officials are urging an early return to session but reaching a 60-vote threshold in the Senate requires Democratic support.