In February 2026, DHS funding expired, prompting a partial government shutdown affecting which three agencies?

When congressional funding for the Department of Homeland (Review) Security (DHS) expires, as it hypothetically did in February 2026, a partial government shutdown can occur, directly impacting critical agencies under its umbrella. Among these are the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the United States Coast Guard. These three entities are vital components of the DHS, established in 2003 to consolidate various federal functions related to homeland security following the September 11th attacks.

FEMA, responsible for coordinating the federal response to disasters that overwhelm state and local resources, was integrated into DHS in March 2003. A funding lapse means that while essential FEMA staff would continue to respond to immediate emergencies, long-term disaster recovery projects could face delays due to a lack of funding. Similarly, the TSA, created in the aftermath of 9/11 to secure transportation systems, particularly airports, also became part of DHS in March 2003. During a shutdown, Transportation Security Officers, deemed essential personnel, are typically required to continue working without immediate pay, leading to potential stress and staffing issues.

The U.S. Coast Guard, a unique branch of the armed forces with maritime security, search and rescue, and law enforcement responsibilities, operates under DHS during peacetime. Like other essential law enforcement and national security functions, many Coast Guard operations continue during a shutdown, as their duties are critical to public safety and national defense. Government shutdowns, which happen when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills, can furlough non-essential federal employees and disrupt a wide array of public services, highlighting the interconnectedness of federal agencies and their funding.