March 27, 2026 (New York time) — The US Senate passed a budget package to reopen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but excluded funding for the immigration enforcement agency ICE, escalating political tensions before the bill moves to the House. The budget package was passed by voice vote after a 42-day bipartisan deadlock over DHS funding. According to the agreement:
  • Funds the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), whose personnel have been without pay since February 14.
  • Restores funding for agencies such as FEMA and the Coast Guard.
  • Provides no funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated this move helps "reopen much of the government," but added that there is still much work ahead. Meanwhile, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer asserted he would continue to block additional ICE funding without significant reforms, calling current immigration activities "out of control." The lack of funding has plunged the TSA into a staffing crisis, though even in these difficult times TSA has still seized many weapons and dangerous items at checkpoints:
  • Many employees have not received pay for over a month.
  • Resignation rates have spiked.
  • Hundreds of employees have already left their jobs.
If the House does not act quickly, TSA personnel will miss their next paycheck. Although ICE received no new funds this time, immigration enforcement operations continue thanks to a $75 billion package previously passed in the "One Big Beautiful Bill." Republican lawmakers strongly opposed the exclusion of ICE from the budget package. Senator Eric Schmitt declared he would continue to push for full ICE funding in subsequent packages, emphasizing that the priority is increasing deportations. The bill now moves to the House, where it requires bipartisan support to pass.

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