President Trump signed a bill that ended the partial government shutdown, but DHS funding remains uncertain. The agreement passed the House of Representatives in a close vote and was approved by the Senate last week. The deal covers most federal agencies until the fiscal year ends in September. However, DHS funding will expire next week unless lawmakers reach another deal.
The focus of the negotiations is DHS funding. Democrats have called for reforms after federal immigration agents fatally shot two citizens in Minneapolis. They demand changes in how Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, operates. For example, Democrats want agents to record actions on body cameras and avoid wearing masks to hide their faces. They also want adjustments to funding rules based on recent incidents.
Lawmakers face pressure to resolve DHS funding quickly. Senators had approved several spending bills but delayed a full DHS package. Instead, they allowed only a short-term funding measure to keep the department running for two weeks. The House agreed to the same temporary plan.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune criticized the limited timeframe. He said Republicans face internal disagreements and that completing negotiations in two weeks is nearly impossible. Despite this, lawmakers must continue discussions to secure long-term DHS funding.
The shutdown caused disruptions in many government services. Federal Aviation Administration staff and air traffic controllers either stayed home without pay or worked under stress. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics delayed its monthly jobs report. This report is important for investors, politicians, and citizens tracking the economy.
Trump called the bill a victory for the American public during a signing in the Oval Office. He emphasized the government now functions for most agencies, but DHS funding remains the most contentious issue. Multiple DHS agencies, including ICE, Customs and Border Protection, the Coast Guard, and the Secret Service, are affected.
Lawmakers must continue negotiations over DHS funding. Both the House and Senate must approve any new agreements before the president can sign them. Democrats continue to push for immigration reforms and tighter oversight of federal law enforcement. Meanwhile, federal agencies continue operations under the temporary funding.
The government now has more time, but DHS funding questions remain unresolved. Lawmakers are expected to debate reforms and budget allocations in the coming days. This ongoing debate highlights tensions over immigration enforcement and agency oversight while the public waits for a permanent resolution.
