The proposed action follows a similar move to restore pay for Transportation Security Administration workers, many of whom had called out during the shutdown, leading to long security lines at airports across the country. Trump’s latest plan is expected to extend relief to additional DHS personnel, including employees at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other support staff who have continued working without pay.
Despite the executive action, a broader legislative resolution remains uncertain. Lawmakers in both chambers met briefly on Thursday, April 2, 2026, in pro forma sessions without advancing a comprehensive funding agreement. Republican leaders and the White House have aligned around a two-step strategy to fund most DHS operations while deferring decisions on immigration enforcement agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Border Patrol.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that discussions are ongoing but acknowledged uncertainty about how the House will proceed. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson has reversed his earlier position and is now backing the Senate-supported framework, though resistance within the Republican conference could complicate passage. Some lawmakers continue to push for full funding of all enforcement operations, arguing that any delay could weaken border security.
Democratic leaders have pointed to Republican divisions as the primary reason for the delay, noting that a bipartisan Senate proposal had already gained support. Funding for immigration enforcement agencies remains a central point of contention, with conservative lawmakers opposing any measure they believe could limit enforcement efforts.
As negotiations continue, the prolonged shutdown has placed financial strain on thousands of federal employees, even as most DHS personnel remain on duty. The administration has also signaled plans for a broader budget package later in the year aimed at securing long-term funding for immigration enforcement programs.
