Story perspectives

DHS Funding Dry by May, TSA Quits, Paychecks at Risk

4/23/2026

Summary

Mullin Warns Funding

Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned DHS will run out of funds for 260,000 staff by May after Feb 14 shutdown drained a $10 billion reserve, leaving $1.4 billion on April 19—short of $1.6 billion payroll.
Since mid-February, 838 TSA officers have quit, creating security lines that spilled into airport parking lots.
The Senate seeks $70 billion bill while American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) warns of a 50-50 chance of May 8 paychecks unless Congress acts by April 24.

Summary

FEMA Funding Gap

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund is $3.4 billion, just above the $3 billion Immediate Needs limit, which restricts spending to lifesaving actions.
About 45,000 emergency responders miss training as National Fire Academy classes are postponed.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) staffing is 40 percent, with over half its workforce furloughed.
United States Coast Guard (USCG) stations have over 500 unpaid utility bills, threatening electricity and water services.

History

Historical Context

The Budget Control Act of 2011, enacted to resolve the debt-ceiling crisis, imposed strict spending caps that began affecting the federal budget in fiscal year 2013. This legislation led to significant funding shortages, including a $1.6 billion payroll gap for the Department of Homeland Security, impacting 260,000 employees. The ongoing budget constraints threaten emergency response capabilities and public safety as agencies struggle with inadequate resources.

1 of 3

Mullin Warns Funding

Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned DHS will run out of funds for 260,000 staff by May after Feb 14 shutdown drained a $10 billion reserve, leaving $1.4 billion on April 19—short of $1.6 billion payroll.
Since mid-February, 838 TSA officers have quit, creating security lines that spilled into airport parking lots.
The Senate seeks $70 billion bill while American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) warns of a 50-50 chance of May 8 paychecks unless Congress acts by April 24.

1 / 3