The Senate attempted to pass legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) before it runs out of money, but fell short of the necessary votes. The House had passed a spending bill earlier in the year, but a standoff over immigration law enforcement funding led to a partial government shutdown. Lawmakers now face a deadline to reach a deal before DHS funding runs out.
Despite efforts to reach an agreement, some lawmakers are predicting another lapse in funding for DHS. The Senate has been leading negotiations, with the White House sending serious offers to Democrats. However, Democrats have been resistant to Republican overtures, sticking to demands for stricter immigration law enforcement measures.
Meanwhile, in the House, a bill requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote and photo ID to vote in federal elections was passed. Senate Republicans are pushing for similar legislation but face challenges in getting the necessary votes. The Majority Leader has ruled out changing Senate rules to pass the bill.
As the DHS funding deadline looms, the majority of the agency is set to shut down unless a last-minute deal is reached. Democrats have vowed to oppose any legislation that doesn’t include restrictions on immigration enforcement. The White House has sent proposals to Democrats, but no agreement has been reached yet.
If a deal is not reached, a shutdown would affect agencies within DHS such as TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard. Despite the potential shutdown, ICE and US Customs and Border Protection operations will continue due to additional funding allocated by Republicans last year. The Senate is set to vote on legislation to fund DHS through September 30.