Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

DHS Faces Shutdown Crisis: Payroll Funds Depleted By May

4/22/2026

49 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned DHS will exhaust funds for employee pay by early May unless Congress acts.
Payroll costs exceed $1.6 billion biweekly, and current funds are nearly depleted.
The shutdown has caused staffing issues, with many TSA officers quitting or calling out, creating long security lines.
More than 90% of DHS employees are essential and work without pay, heightening pressure on Congress.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, which furloughed 800,000 federal employees, stemmed from a budget impasse over the debt ceiling and funding disputes, particularly regarding the Affordable Care Act. This crisis highlighted ongoing funding vulnerabilities within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which reported payroll costs exceeding $1.6 billion biweekly, affecting national security and operational efficiency.

1 of 2

Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned DHS will exhaust funds for employee pay by early May unless Congress acts.
Payroll costs exceed $1.6 billion biweekly, and current funds are nearly depleted.
The shutdown has caused staffing issues, with many TSA officers quitting or calling out, creating long security lines.
More than 90% of DHS employees are essential and work without pay, heightening pressure on Congress.

1 / 2