DHS Warns: Shutdown Backlogs Continue to Increase
The Department of Homeland Security warned lawmakers that the ongoing shutdown is creating growing backlogs and operational strain. Testimony this week highlighted impacts across the Coast Guard, CISA, and Customs and Border Protection.
Coast Guard facing bills and credential backlog
Adm. Kevin Lunday told the House Appropriations subcommittee the shutdown began Feb. 14. He said the service welcomed emergency pay actions, but challenges remain.
The Coast Guard has more than 5,000 unpaid utility bills. Over 100 service providers have threatened to cut power or water at stations and airfields. Processing of 18,000 Merchant Mariner credentials is delayed, officials said.
CISA operations curtailed
Nick Andersen, director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, reported reduced staff presence. Only about 40 percent of CISA personnel had been working during much of the lapse.
CISA officials noted legal limits on some activities. Outreach and other preparatory cyber planning tasks remain constrained despite threats tied to the conflict in Iran. The agency did issue a joint advisory on Iranian threat actors last week.
CBP maintenance and intelligence gaps
Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott described grounded aircraft and parked patrol boats. Vehicles and surveillance systems needing service have been sidelined.
Commissioner Scott also warned that confidential human sources are unpaid. He said the department risks losing some intelligence tools that support border security.
Event planning and workforce impacts
At a Senate subcommittee hearing, DHS officials said planning for the summer FIFA World Cup has been hampered. Chris Tomney cited reduced coordination with state and local partners.
Tomney added the lapse has lowered planning capacity and noted hundreds of TSA employees have resigned in recent months. He nonetheless assured lawmakers that preparations will keep the tournament safe and secure.
Administration steps and warnings
Officials said the administration redirected funds to restore pay for DHS workers. OMB Director Russell Vought framed the action as preventing a wider exodus of staff.
Lawmakers and agency leaders emphasized that DHS warns shutdown backlogs are growing. They urged Congress to pass appropriations to avoid further disruptions.
- Shutdown start date: Feb. 14, 2026.
- Coast Guard unpaid utility bills: over 5,000.
- Merchan Mariner credential backlog: about 18,000.
- CISA staffing during lapse: roughly 40% active.
- TSA attrition: hundreds of employees resigned recently.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow budget hearings and report on further impacts to homeland security operations.
