Partial Shutdown Hits U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Washington, D.C. – February 16, 2026: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has entered a partial government shutdown after Congress failed to pass a funding bill before the midnight deadline on Friday. This funding lapse stems from a bitter partisan standoff over reforms to federal immigration enforcement, including oversight of agencies like U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The shutdown directly impacts key DHS operations, including:
- Border security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Airport screening by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), raising concerns about longer lines and potential travel delays
- Immigration enforcement (ICE)
- Disaster response through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- Maritime security, search-and-rescue, and patrols by the U.S. Coast Guard
While the rest of the federal government continues to operate normally (thanks to prior appropriations), most DHS employees—estimated at around 90% in some reports—are required to report to work but without guaranteed pay during the lapse. This includes Coast Guard personnel, who continue critical missions like search-and-rescue without assured paychecks, potentially straining morale and finances.
Travel groups and airlines are warning of possible disruptions at airports due to TSA staffing challenges, while the Coast Guard faces risks to operations and personnel welfare.
Congress remains in recess until February 23, with no immediate signs of compromise. President Trump has indicated personal involvement in negotiations, but both sides appear dug in over immigration policy demands.
This marks the latest in a series of funding impasses in 2026, highlighting ongoing tensions in Congress. Officials urge the public to monitor updates from DHS, TSA, and local authorities for any travel or emergency impacts.
Stay tuned for developments as talks continue.