DHS Shutdown Looms, Travelers Brace for Impact

Funding bill stalls, putting Department of Homeland Security at risk of closure

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The United States is on the verge of another government shutdown, this time affecting only the Department of Homeland Security as a funding bill stalls in Congress. With some still recovering from the financial impact of the previous 43-day shutdown, travelers are bracing for potential disruptions to security and travel operations.

Why it matters

A DHS shutdown would have far-reaching consequences, potentially causing delays and disruptions at airports, borders, and other critical infrastructure. This comes at a time when the travel industry is still recovering from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The details

The current funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security is set to expire, and lawmakers have been unable to reach an agreement on a new bill. Without a resolution, DHS will be forced to shut down, leading to the furlough of thousands of federal workers and the suspension of many vital security and travel-related services.

  • The current DHS funding bill is set to expire on February 28, 2026.

The players

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency responsible for protecting the United States from terrorism and other threats, as well as managing border security, immigration enforcement, and disaster response.

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What’s next

If Congress fails to pass a new funding bill for DHS before the current one expires, the agency will be forced to initiate shutdown procedures, which could take several days to fully implement.

The takeaway

A potential DHS shutdown would have significant impacts on travelers, causing delays and disruptions at airports, borders, and other critical infrastructure. This underscores the need for lawmakers to work together to find a solution and avoid further disruptions to the travel industry and the American public.