March 20, 2026

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) remains without funding as negotiations between the administration and congressional leaders continue to stall, with no clear path toward resolution. The funding lapse, which began on February 14, 2026, is increasingly tied to broader disagreements over immigration enforcement policy, particularly related to oversight and operational practices of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). 

Recent discussions between the White House and Senate Democrats have not produced a breakthrough. The administration has proposed additional oversight measures, however, no proposals have been accepted by the Democrats.

As a result, both parties remain steadfast in their positions. Republican leadership has emphasized the need to fully fund DHS, while Democratic lawmakers continue to push for policy changes as part of any funding agreement. Congressional leadership has indicated that the current stall could persist for several weeks, raising the possibility of an extended funding lapse. 

The effects of the funding lapse are becoming more visible. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel continue to work without pay, contributing to longer wait times at airports and increased strain on operations during a period of high travel demand. Additionally, key federal activities have been delayed, including the release of a report on the future of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which remains pending due to the funding lapse.

At the same time, the department is undergoing a leadership transition. President Trump announced that Kristi Noem has departed her role as DHS Secretary and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) has been selected to succeed her. He appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee this week to begin the confirmation process. The committee voted to advance the nomination to a full vote by the Senate. This transition comes as DHS faces ongoing funding uncertainty and broader policy debates. 

IACP will continue monitoring developments and assessing any potential impacts on policing programs, grants, and other federal public safety activities.

IACP Legislative Activity:  

IACP Urges Robust Funding for FY27 Public Safety Programs  

IACP sent a letter to House and Senate appropriators urging robust FY27 funding for key public safety programs, including COPS, Byrne JAG, LEMHWA, CRI-TAC, and the VALOR Initiative. The letter highlights each program and its critical role in supporting state and local policing.

Byrne JAG Stakeholder Letter (FY27) 

IACP, along with other public safety stakeholders, sent a letter to House and Senate appropriators urging them to restore and strengthen funding for the Byrne JAG program, emphasizing its flexibility and critical role in supporting state and local public safety priorities nationwide.

IACP Supports S. 545, Combating Illicit Xylazine Act Letter 

IACP, along with other law enforcement organizations, sent a letter in support of the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act (S. 545), urging the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance the bill. The legislation would classify xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer found in the illicit drug supply, as a Schedule III controlled substance. The legislation would provide police leaders with tools to track and disrupt its distribution while preserving access for legitimate veterinary use.

Nominee and Appointment Developments 

• Robert Cekada, nominee for Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): Cekada was nominated by President Trump on January 13, 2026, and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. He appeared before the committee for his confirmation hearing on February 4 and was reported favorably out of committee on March 5. His nomination has since been placed on the Senate Executive Calendar for consideration by the full Senate. 
• Markwayne Mullin, nominee for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Mullin was nominated by President Trump on March 9, 2026, to serve as DHS Secretary, succeeding Kristi Noem. He appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee for his confirmation hearing and was reported favorably out of committee on March 19.

Upcoming Congressional Hearings  

Tuesday, March 24 

Open/Closed: To Receive Testimony on Enterprise Security and Information Technology Operations of Department of Defense Networks and Systems| 2:30 p.m., SR-232A RSOB 

Senate Armed Services Committee – Hearing| Link to recording

Wednesday, March 25

Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs – Member Day | 10:00 a.m., H-140 U.S. Capitol 

House Committee on Appropriations – Meeting| Link to recording

Senate Nominations | 10:15 a.m., 106 DSOB  

Senate Judiciary Committee – Hearing | Link to recording

Past legislative Updates