Monday, February 16, 2026

Top Democratic appropriator in House pitches funding TSA, FEMA as DHS shutdown looms

House Appropriations Committee ranking member Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) has announced her support for funding agencies under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that do not deal with immigration enforcement. This statement comes as lawmakers continue to negotiate reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

In a statement released on Thursday, DeLauro expressed her strong support for funding agencies within DHS that focus on other important aspects of national security. She emphasized the need to prioritize funding for these agencies while discussions on immigration enforcement reforms continue.

DeLauro stated, “While I strongly support the need for comprehensive immigration reform and addressing the issues within ICE and CBP, we cannot neglect the other critical functions of the Department of Homeland Security. We must ensure that agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have the necessary resources to keep our country safe.”

This announcement from DeLauro comes as a welcome development for many who have been concerned about the impact of the ongoing immigration debate on other vital functions of the DHS. With the current focus on immigration enforcement, there have been growing concerns about the potential neglect of other important aspects of national security.

DeLauro’s statement also highlights the need for a balanced approach to addressing immigration issues. While it is crucial to address the problems within ICE and CBP, it is equally important to recognize the critical role played by other agencies within DHS. As negotiations on immigration reforms continue, it is essential to ensure that all aspects of national security are given due consideration.

The ranking member’s support for funding agencies within DHS that do not deal with immigration enforcement is a testament to her commitment to the safety and well-being of the American people. It also reflects her understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of national security.

DeLauro’s stance has been met with widespread praise and support from her colleagues and advocates for immigration reform. They have commended her for taking a proactive approach and recognizing the need to prioritize funding for other crucial agencies within DHS.

In addition to her support for funding non-immigration enforcement agencies, DeLauro has also been a vocal advocate for comprehensive immigration reform. She has consistently called for a fair and humane approach to addressing the issue and has been a strong proponent of protecting the rights of immigrants.

DeLauro’s statement serves as a reminder that while the immigration debate may dominate headlines, there are other pressing issues within the DHS that also require attention and resources. It is essential to strike a balance and ensure that all aspects of national security are adequately addressed.

As discussions on immigration reforms continue, it is crucial for lawmakers to keep in mind the importance of maintaining the overall safety and security of the country. DeLauro’s support for funding agencies within DHS that do not deal with immigration enforcement is a step in the right direction towards achieving this goal.

In conclusion, House Appropriations Committee ranking member Rosa DeLauro’s announcement of her support for funding non-immigration enforcement agencies within the Department of Homeland Security is a positive development. It highlights the need for a balanced approach to addressing immigration issues and underscores the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of the American people. Let us hope that this stance will pave the way for meaningful and comprehensive immigration reform that takes into account all aspects of national security.

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