WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security shutdown is now being tied to the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict by Congressman Tim Walberg.
Walberg issued a statement calling on Senate Democrats to pass the House-approved DHS funding bill, arguing that heightened security concerns require immediate action. Walberg stated, “The Democrats’ shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security is jeopardizing our national security. Due to the ongoing conflict with Iran and heightened security concerns, we need to strengthen our defenses rather than engage in political maneuvers that undermine our ability to protect our homeland.”
The U.S. House passed a full-year DHS appropriations bill January 22. The Senate did not advance the measure. Under Senate rules, 60 votes are required to move most spending bills forward. The legislation did not reach that threshold.
Without agreement between both chambers before the deadline, DHS funding lapsed February 14.
Essential personnel within agencies such as FEMA, the Coast Guard, the Secret Service and CISA continue operating under shutdown procedures, while some discretionary functions are paused.
Congress has not yet approved a continuing resolution or alternative funding package. Negotiations are ongoing.