Funding Lapse and Security Gaps: Assessing the Harmful Impacts of the DHS Shutdown on Americans

The Homeland Security Committee held a hearing on March 25, 2026, to assess the impacts of the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown on national security and agency operations. Witnesses from TSA, Coast Guard, CISA, and FEMA testified about the severe operational disruptions caused by the funding lapse, including unpaid essential personnel, increased attrition, delayed training, and halted procurement and grant processes. TSA highlighted critical staffing shortages and the inability to train new officers in time for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, while the Coast Guard reported maintenance backlogs and financial strain on contractors. CISA noted reduced cybersecurity capabilities and paused proactive risk mitigation efforts, and FEMA described delays in disaster response funding and training cancellations. The hearing featured partisan debate over responsibility for the shutdown, with Republicans emphasizing Democratic opposition to funding bills and Democrats criticizing the administration's handling of ICE and border security. Multiple members urged immediate funding to restore DHS operations and support the workforce. No new contracts or procurement decisions were announced, but testimony underscored the urgent need for budget appropriations to prevent further degradation of homeland security functions.