President Trump Announces Pay Order for DHS Employees Amid Government Shutdown
President Donald Trump announced that he will sign an order to pay all Department of Homeland Security employees who have not received paychecks during the ongoing government shutdown. The funding lapse for some DHS needs is expected to continue into next week as the House considers passing a Senate plan to fund most of the agency, excluding immigration enforcement operations. Trump's decision aims to provide relief to non-law enforcement employees at DHS, including those at FEMA, U.S. Coast Guard, and federal cybersecurity agencies.
The House and Senate did not reach a legislative resolution on Thursday, but they are working on a plan to fully fund DHS in a two-step process. Senate Majority Leader John Thune set aside the House plan to fund the department for 60 days, while the House is expected to consider the Senate plan that excludes funding for ICE and Border Patrol. The agreement between congressional leaders and Trump aims to end the impasse that led to Congress leaving Washington without a solution.
House Republicans are expected to discuss the next steps in a conference call to secure support for the two-track plan. Trump's support for the plan could help unify Republicans and move forward with funding for Border Patrol and ICE. The budget package Trump wants later this year is anticipated to fund ICE and Border Patrol for the remainder of his term, ensuring these agencies are not at risk from Democratic objections to his immigration enforcement agenda.
Despite the challenges and potential hurdles, the goal is to pass the legislation quickly and keep it focused on funding for law enforcement agencies. The majority of DHS employees have been working without pay during the shutdown, causing frustration for many. The situation is gradually improving as TSA agents receive backpay and airport security lines return to normal. FEMA workers are also affected, with some being paid from the Disaster Relief Fund while others are furloughed or working without pay.
In conclusion, the ongoing government shutdown has impacted DHS employees, but efforts are being made to provide relief and ensure funding for essential agencies. The collaboration between congressional leaders, Trump, and DHS employees is crucial in resolving the funding lapse and supporting those affected by the shutdown.