Juan Ciscomani: “For 41 days now, the ongoing DHS shutdown has disrupted critical operations, impacted the livelihoods of dedicated…”

“For 41 days now, the ongoing DHS shutdown has disrupted critical operations, impacted the livelihoods of dedicated personnel, and weakened key components of our national security. This bill is a necessary step to restore stability, support our workforce, and ensure the safety of the American people. As of today, DHS employees have missed a full paycheck, and 400 TSA agents have flatout quit. You can't blame them for that. Due to staff shortages, security lines are longer, impacting travelers across the country. I have never supported a Government shutdown of any kind, partial or full. The current Department of Homeland Security shutdown has been in effect since February 14, 2026, making it the longest partial shutdown in history, followed previously by the longest full shutdown in U.S. history, both caused by Democrats. Without immediate funding to DHS, these challenges will continue to escalate, further straining our workforce and jeopardizing our national security. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to put hardworking Americans first by supporting my Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act.”