Homeland Security Spending Bill for Fiscal Year 2026

What to know

• The bill adds $98 million for Coast Guard drones, but no DHS drone may carry weapons.
• FEMA loses budget money each day it misses deadlines for grant postings, disaster reports, or clearing a backlog of more than 500 unpaid requests.
• The Secret Service gets a higher overtime cap. It can move up to $15 million within its budget. It must tell Congress before it goes over normal travel limits.
• About $203 million in unspent funds is canceled across DHS. That includes money from FEMA, TSA, and the cybersecurity agency.
• DHS must tell Congress before giving grants over $1 million, contracts over $2 million, or task orders over $5 million. Only urgent safety threats allow an exception.
• The bill blocks reviews to privatize certain jobs, such as Coast Guard vessel workers, immigration officers, and federal law enforcement trainers.

Heads up

13 buried provisions

Provisions we flagged do not match the bill's stated purpose, or repeat language from bills that did not pass on their own.

Section by section

1. General funding authority for fiscal year 2026

   This section is the opening funding statement for the bill. It says that all money listed in the act comes from the U.S. Treasury. The funds have not been set aside for any other purpose. The money covers the period from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, which is the federal government's fiscal year 2026.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security and all programs funded by this bill. Taxpayers provide the money through the federal Treasury.

   Tradeoff

   Spending these funds on Homeland Security programs means this money is not available for other federal uses.

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   the following sums in this Act are appropriated, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026.

2. Review of non-competitive grants and contracts

   This section requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a report by October 15, 2026. The report must list every grant and contract the department awarded without full and open competition in fiscal years 2025 or 2026. After receiving that report, the department's Inspector General must review it. The Inspector General checks whether those awards followed applicable laws and rules. The Inspector General then sends findings to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees by February 15, 2027.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security, its Inspector General, and any businesses or organizations that received sole-source or otherwise non-competitive contracts or grants from the department.

   Tradeoff

   The review adds oversight and transparency over how the department awards contracts, but it also requires staff time and resources from both the department and the Inspector General's office.

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   The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a report not later than October 15, 2026, to the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security listing all grants and contracts awarded by any means other than full and open competition during fiscal years 2025 or 2026.

3. Monthly budget and staffing reports for DHS

   This section requires the Department of Homeland Security's top financial officer to send a report to Congress every month. The report must arrive within 30 days after each month ends. It must show how much money the department spent that month and for the full year so far. Spending must be broken down by program and funding source. The very first staffing report submitted becomes the official starting point. Any later changes to staffing levels for any program must be measured against that starting point.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security and its budget staff are required to produce these reports. Congressional appropriations committees receive and review them.

   Tradeoff

   Regular reporting gives Congress more oversight of DHS spending and staffing, but it adds an ongoing workload for DHS financial staff.

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   Not later than 30 days after the last day of each month, the Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Homeland Security shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate a monthly budget and staffing report that includes total obligations of the Department for that month and for the fiscal year at the appropriation and program, project, and activity levels, by the source year of the appropriation.

4. Congressional notice before Treasury forfeiture funds move to DHS

   This section sets up a two-step process before money can move from the Treasury Department's Forfeiture Fund to any agency inside the Department of Homeland Security. First, the Homeland Security Secretary, working with the Treasury Secretary, must tell the House and Senate Appropriations Committees about any planned transfer. Second, none of that money can actually be spent until both committees have received that notice. The rule applies to a specific pot of forfeiture money described in federal law (31 U.S.C. 9705). In short, Congress gets a heads-up and a brief pause before the funds move.

   Who this affects

   The Homeland Security Secretary, the Treasury Secretary, and the House and Senate Appropriations Committees are directly involved. DHS agencies that might receive forfeiture funds are also affected.

   Tradeoff

   The rule gives Congress more visibility and oversight over fund transfers, but it adds a waiting step that could slow down when DHS agencies can use those funds.

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   None of the funds identified for such a transfer may be obligated until the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate are notified of the proposed transfer.

5. Government aircraft costs for Secretary and Deputy Secretary travel

   This section sets a rule about who pays for government aircraft used by the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. All costs for those flights must come from the Office of the Secretary's budget. The money cannot come from other parts of the department's budget.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security, specifically the Office of the Secretary and its budget.

   Tradeoff

   Centralizing these flight costs in one office budget makes spending easier to track, but it also reduces the funds available to the Office of the Secretary for other uses.

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   All official costs associated with the use of Government aircraft by Department of Homeland Security personnel to support official travel of the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary shall be paid from amounts made available for the Office of the Secretary.

6. Quarterly briefings on major DHS purchasing programs

   This section requires the Department of Homeland Security's top management official to brief Congress four times a year on large buying programs. The briefings must cover programs listed at Level 1 or Level 2 on DHS's oversight list. Each briefing must include what is being bought, how many units, the cost over the program's lifetime, how actual costs and schedules compare to original plans, which contractors are involved, and any risks that could push the program over budget or behind schedule. The official must also send Congress any formal approval documents within five business days of signing them.

   Who this affects

   The DHS Under Secretary for Management must provide these briefings. Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees receive the information.

   Tradeoff

   More detailed oversight may help Congress catch cost overruns early, but it also adds reporting work for DHS staff.

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   The Under Secretary for Management shall brief the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate not later than 45 days after the end of each fiscal quarter on all Level 1 and Level 2 acquisition programs on the Master Acquisition Oversight List between Acquisition Decision Event and Full Operational Capability

7. Rules for new pilot programs at the Department of Homeland Security

   This section sets rules for how the Department of Homeland Security can spend money on new pilot or demonstration programs. Before starting one, the department must write down clear, measurable goals, explain how it will collect and analyze data, and lay out a plan with cost estimates and a projected end date. Before using Operations and Support funds, the department must also send a report to Congress. Within 90 days of finishing a pilot, the department must report on what it learned, what it actually cost, and whether it plans to expand or make the program permanent. These rules apply to pilots that use more than 10 full-time staff or spend $5 million or more. They do not apply to programs Congress directly ordered, programs already running when the law takes effect, or pilots run by outside groups receiving grants.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security and its components are directly affected. Taxpayers and Congress benefit from the added oversight of how pilot program money is spent.

   Tradeoff

   The rules add accountability and transparency for pilot programs, but they also create more reporting steps that could slow down or add paperwork to launching new initiatives.

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   None of the funds made available to the Department of Homeland Security in this Act or prior appropriations Acts may be obligated for any new pilot or demonstration unless the component or office carrying out such pilot or demonstration has documented the information described in subsection (c).

8. Limits on DHS intelligence office activities

   This section bars the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Intelligence and Analysis from using any funds in this bill to conduct certain activities. Those activities are called 'covered activities' and are defined in a 2025 law. The ban does not stop DHS officials from doing legal, privacy, civil rights, or civil liberties oversight of that office. It also does not stop the office from sharing intelligence with, or receiving information from, state, local, tribal, or foreign governments, private companies, or other parts of the federal government.

   Who this affects

   The DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis and its personnel. It also affects state, local, tribal, and foreign governments and private sector partners who share information with that office.

   Tradeoff

   The section restricts certain intelligence activities to protect civil liberties, but it keeps information-sharing with many partners intact.

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   None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used by the Office of Intelligence and Analysis of the Department of Homeland Security to conduct a covered activity (as defined by section 6303 of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025).

9. Inspector General oversight reports on disaster funding

   This section requires the Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General to send quarterly reports to Congress. These reports must cover how money from Public Law 119-21 is being spent. Each report must include the status of spending plans and any audits of contracts and purchases. Starting one year after this bill becomes law, the Inspector General must also send a yearly report. That annual report must cover all audits, inspections, and evaluations of the funds. It must also suggest ways to cut waste, fraud, and abuse.

   Who this affects

   The Department of Homeland Security Inspector General must produce the reports. Congress receives them. Programs funded under Public Law 119-21 are reviewed.

   Tradeoff

   More oversight may catch waste and fraud, but it also adds reporting work for the Inspector General's office.

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   The Inspector General shall report to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate on a quarterly basis on oversight of the funding provided to the Department in Public Law 119–21.

10. Airport screening rules for senior government officials

    This section says that certain top government officials must go through the same airport passenger and baggage screening as the general public. The list includes members of Congress, congressional leaders, cabinet-level officials at the Department of Homeland Security, the Attorney General and other senior Justice Department officials, and senior White House staff such as the budget director. The section also blocks any federal funds from being used to pass or carry out any law that would let these officials skip those screening requirements.

    Who this affects

    Senior federal officials, including members of Congress, DHS leadership, Justice Department leadership, and senior White House staff. It also affects the Transportation Security Administration, which runs airport screening.

    Tradeoff

    Applying standard screening to top officials treats them like ordinary travelers, but it may slow their movement and could raise security concerns about predictable screening routines for high-profile targets.

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    Members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, including the leadership; the heads of Federal agencies and commissions, including the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Under Secretaries, and Assistant Secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security...shall not be exempt from Federal passenger and baggage screening.

11. Flexible use of airport security funds

    This section allows money in the Aviation Security Capital Fund to be spent in two ways during 2026. It can pay for buying and installing explosives detection equipment at airports. It can also be used for special agreements called 'other transaction agreements,' which let the Transportation Security Administration partner with companies or other groups on security projects. Normally, a law called section 44923 of title 49 limits how this fund can be used. This section sets aside that limit for 2026 only.

    Who this affects

    Airports and travelers who use them. Companies that make or install airport security equipment may also be affected.

    Tradeoff

    Giving officials more flexibility in how they spend the fund could speed up security upgrades, but it also reduces the spending restrictions that Congress set in the original law.

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    any funds in the Aviation Security Capital Fund established by section 44923(h) of title 49, United States Code, may be used for the procurement and installation of explosives detection systems or for the issuance of other transaction agreements

12. TSA reporting requirements on security equipment and technology plans

    This section requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to send one combined report to several congressional committees. The report must be submitted within 45 days after the President releases a budget proposal. The report must cover three things. First, it must include a Capital Investment Plan showing how TSA plans to buy new security equipment and replace old equipment, both with and without budget limits. Second, it must include a five-year technology investment plan already required by existing law. Third, it must include a report on advanced passenger screening technologies previously required by a 2019 spending bill. By bundling these into one report, Congress can review TSA's equipment and technology plans together.

    Who this affects

    The TSA Administrator must produce this report. Members of several House and Senate committees receive it. The public may benefit indirectly if the report leads to better-maintained airport security equipment.

    Tradeoff

    Combining reports reduces paperwork for TSA, but it also means Congress gets all this information on a fixed timeline tied to the President's budget, which could delay updates if the budget is submitted late.

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    Not later than 45 days after the submission of the President's budget proposal, the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations and Homeland Security of the House of Representatives and the Committees on Appropriations and Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a single report that fulfills the following requirements

13. Change TSA reporting requirement to a briefing

    This section changes how the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) shares certain information with Congress. Right now, the law requires TSA to write a formal report and send it to Congress. This section changes that requirement. Instead of a written report, TSA would give an in-person or verbal briefing. The word 'report' is replaced with 'briefing' and the word 'transmit to' is replaced with 'provide' throughout that part of the law.

    Who this affects

    The Transportation Security Administration and the members of Congress who receive TSA oversight information.

    Tradeoff

    A verbal briefing may be faster and less costly to produce, but a written report creates a permanent, public record that is easier for citizens to review.

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    Section 515(b) of Public Law 108–334 (49 U.S.C. 44945 note) is amended by striking report each place it appears (including in the subsection heading) and inserting briefing and by striking transmit to and inserting provide .

14. Coast Guard yacht documentation funding limits

    This section limits how the Coast Guard can spend its operations budget on paperwork for recreational boats. The Coast Guard may only pay for recreational vessel documentation if yacht owners pay fees that cover those costs. If the fees do not fully cover the costs, and a backlog of applications builds up, then staff who normally handle non-recreational vessel paperwork are allowed to help process recreational vessel applications.

    Who this affects

    Owners of yachts and recreational vessels who need official documentation, and Coast Guard staff who process vessel paperwork.

    Tradeoff

    Yacht owners must fund their own documentation services through fees, which keeps taxpayer money from subsidizing recreational boating, but if fees fall short, commercial vessel processing staff may be pulled to clear backlogs.

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    None of the funds made available by this Act under the heading Coast Guard—Operations and Support shall be for expenses incurred for recreational vessels under section 12114 of title 46, United States Code, except to the extent fees are collected from owners of yachts and credited to the appropriation made available by this Act

15. Coast Guard capital investment plan requirement

    This section requires the Commandant of the Coast Guard to send a multi-year capital investment plan to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. The plan must follow the same rules set in a 2015 spending law for Coast Guard construction and equipment purchases. Those older rules spell out what the plan must include and how it must be formatted. This keeps Congress informed about how the Coast Guard plans to spend money on ships, aircraft, and other major assets over several future years.

    Who this affects

    The Coast Guard is required to prepare and submit the plan. Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees receive and review it.

    Tradeoff

    Requiring this plan gives Congress more oversight of Coast Guard spending, but it adds a reporting task for the agency.

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    the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate a future-years capital investment plan as described in the second proviso under the heading Coast Guard—Acquisition, Construction, and Improvements in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015

16. Coast Guard Operations Systems Center funding protection

    This section stops any money in this bill from being used to shrink the Coast Guard's Operations Systems Center. The center handles important technology and support systems for the Coast Guard. The section protects both government employees and contract workers at the center. Their staffing levels cannot be cut using funds from this bill.

    Who this affects

    Coast Guard government employees and contractors who work at the Operations Systems Center. It also affects the Coast Guard as a whole, since the center supports its operations.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping staffing levels in place protects existing operations, but it also limits the ability of budget managers to shift funds or reduce costs at this center.

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    None of the funds in this Act shall be used to reduce the Coast Guard's legacy Operations Systems Center mission or its government-employed or contract staff levels.

17. Protection of Coast Guard vessel documentation jobs from privatization

    This section blocks federal money from being used to run a privatization competition for the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center. The Office of Management and Budget has a process called Circular A-76. That process lets agencies compare the cost of government workers doing a job versus private companies doing it. If the government loses that comparison, the work can be outsourced. This section prevents that comparison from happening at all for the Vessel Documentation Center. The Center handles official paperwork for U.S. commercial and recreational vessels, such as boat titles and ownership records.

    Who this affects

    Federal workers at the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center. Also boat owners and businesses that rely on the Center for vessel registration and documentation services.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping the work in-house protects those government jobs, but it also means no outside review of whether a private company could do the work at a lower cost to taxpayers.

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    None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be used to conduct, or to implement the results of, a competition under Office of Management and Budget Circular A–76 for activities performed with respect to the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center.

18. Coast Guard civil engineering operations

    This section says money from this bill can be used to change how the Coast Guard runs its Civil Engineering Program. That program covers units that design, build, and maintain Coast Guard facilities, including those at the Coast Guard Academy. However, there is a limit. No money can be used to reduce or cut operations at any civil engineering unit unless a separate law passed after this bill specifically allows it.

    Who this affects

    Coast Guard civil engineering staff and the units that design, build, and maintain Coast Guard facilities across the country.

    Tradeoff

    The section allows flexibility to reorganize civil engineering operations, but it protects individual units from cuts unless Congress later passes a law that says otherwise.

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    none of the funds provided in this Act may be used to reduce operations within any civil engineering unit unless specifically authorized by a statute enacted after the date of enactment of this Act.

19. Coast Guard Housing Fund deposits

    This section covers money put into the Coast Guard Housing Fund during fiscal year 2026. Any amounts deposited into that fund stay available until they are fully spent. They are used to support Coast Guard housing programs under federal law. These funds are on top of any other money already set aside for the same housing purposes.

    Who this affects

    Coast Guard members and their families who live in Coast Guard-provided housing. It also affects the agencies managing and maintaining that housing.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping the funds available until spent gives the Coast Guard more flexibility to use the money, but it also means the funds are not subject to the usual yearly budget limits that help Congress track spending.

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    Amounts deposited into the Coast Guard Housing Fund in fiscal year 2026 shall be available until expended to carry out the purposes of section 2946 of title 14, United States Code, and shall be in addition to funds otherwise available for such purposes.

20. Coast Guard drone aircraft funding

    This section adds $98 million to the Coast Guard for buying MQ-9 drone aircraft and related equipment. The money can be spent through September 30, 2030. The funds cover the aircraft, base stations, and program management costs. A second part of the section sets a strict limit: no Department of Homeland Security money, from this bill or any earlier one, can be used to buy or equip long-range drones with weapons.

    Who this affects

    The U.S. Coast Guard receives the new funding. All Department of Homeland Security agencies are subject to the ban on armed long-range drones.

    Tradeoff

    The Coast Guard gets more surveillance drone capacity, but no DHS agency can use any funds to add weapons to long-range drones.

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    None of the funds made available for the Department of Homeland Security in this or any prior Act may be used to procure or acquire long-range unmanned aircraft with kinetic capabilities or to equip any long-range unmanned aircraft with kinetic capabilities.

21. Coast Guard modernization plan funding hold

    This section blocks Coast Guard funds from being used for a modernization plan called Force Design 2028. The money stays blocked until the Coast Guard gives detailed briefings to both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. Those briefings must cover four areas: how the Coast Guard is organized, its workforce, its technology, and its contracting and purchasing plans. Once the briefings happen, the funds can be released.

    Who this affects

    The U.S. Coast Guard is directly affected, as its ability to move forward with Force Design 2028 is paused. Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees must receive the briefings before the hold lifts.

    Tradeoff

    Congress gains oversight of how the Coast Guard plans to change, but the pause could slow work on the modernization plan.

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    None of the funds made available to the United States Coast Guard by this Act may be available for implementation of Force Design 2028 until the Coast Guard provides the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate detailed briefings on the initiatives of organization, people, technology, and contracting and acquisitions.

22. Secret Service training center billing flexibility

    This section lets the U.S. Secret Service spend money before it is paid back by other federal agencies. Those agencies send employees to the James J. Rowley Training Center for Secret Service-sponsored training. Normally an agency must have the money in hand first. This rule lets the Secret Service bill the other agencies afterward. There is a limit: total spending cannot exceed the total funds available to the Secret Service under its Operations and Support budget by the end of the fiscal year.

    Who this affects

    The U.S. Secret Service and other federal executive agencies that send personnel to the James J. Rowley Training Center for training.

    Tradeoff

    This gives the Secret Service more flexibility to run training programs without waiting for upfront payment, but it also means the Secret Service carries the financial risk if reimbursements are delayed or fall short.

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    The United States Secret Service is authorized to obligate funds in anticipation of reimbursements from executive agencies...except that total obligations at the end of the fiscal year shall not exceed total budgetary resources available under the heading United States Secret Service—Operations and Support at the end of the fiscal year.

23. Limits on Secret Service protection for agency heads

    This section stops Secret Service money from being used to protect the leaders of most federal agencies. The only agency head the Secret Service can protect using its budget is the Secretary of Homeland Security. However, the Secret Service can still protect other agency heads if those agencies pay the full cost themselves.

    Who this affects

    Leaders of federal agencies who currently receive or seek Secret Service protection. The Secretary of Homeland Security is not affected and keeps existing protection.

    Tradeoff

    This limits how Secret Service funds are spent, but other agency heads can still get protection if their agency pays for it.

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    None of the funds made available to the United States Secret Service by this Act or by previous appropriations Acts may be made available for the protection of the head of a Federal agency other than the Secretary of Homeland Security.

24. Secret Service budget reprogramming limit

    This section sets a special rule for the U.S. Secret Service. It allows up to $15 million to be moved around within the Secret Service's Operations and Support budget. Normally, federal law limits how much money an agency can shift between accounts without asking Congress. This section raises that limit to $15 million for the Secret Service specifically. The money must still stay within the Operations and Support account. It does not add new money. It just gives managers more room to redirect existing funds as needs change.

    Who this affects

    The U.S. Secret Service and its budget managers. Taxpayers whose funds are being reallocated within the agency.

    Tradeoff

    More flexibility lets the Secret Service respond quickly to changing needs, but it also reduces how closely Congress oversees exactly how the money is spent.

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    up to $15,000,000 may be reprogrammed within United States Secret Service—Operations and Support

25. Secret Service travel spending flexibility

    This section lets the Secret Service spend money on travel for protective missions even if that spending would normally exceed set limits. The limits in this law or any other law can be set aside. To do this, the Secret Service Director must notify the House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least 10 days before the spending. If 10 days is not possible, notice must be given as early as possible.

    Who this affects

    The United States Secret Service and its employees on protective missions. The House and Senate Appropriations Committees must receive advance notice.

    Tradeoff

    This gives the Secret Service flexibility to spend what is needed for protective travel, but it requires advance notice to Congress as an oversight check.

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    Funding made available in this Act for United States Secret Service—Operations and Support is available for travel of United States Secret Service employees on protective missions without regard to the limitations on such expenditures in this or any other Act if the Director of the United States Secret Service or a designee notifies the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate 10 or more days in advance, or as early as practicable, prior to such expenditures.

26. Grant for National Computer Forensics Institute facilities

    This section sets aside $2 million from the Secret Service budget. The money goes to existing National Computer Forensics Institute facilities. It is paid out as a grant or cooperative agreement. The funds do not expire and can be spent until fully used. The institute uses these facilities to train law enforcement on how to investigate cybercrimes and financial crimes. The legal authority for this work comes from federal law under title 6 of the U.S. Code.

    Who this affects

    The National Computer Forensics Institute and the law enforcement agencies that receive training there. The Secret Service oversees this funding.

    Tradeoff

    $2 million is directed to a specific training institute, which supports cyber and financial crime investigations but reduces flexibility in how the Secret Service spends its overall budget.

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    $2,000,000, to remain available until expended, shall be distributed as a grant or cooperative agreement for existing National Computer Forensics Institute facilities currently used by the United States Secret Service to carry out activities under section 383 of title 6, United States Code.

27. Secret Service overtime pay and reporting requirements

    This section makes two main changes for the U.S. Secret Service. First, it raises a pay cap for 2024. For that year, Secret Service employees can earn overtime pay up to the rate set for the Vice President of the United States, instead of the normal lower cap. This change is treated as if it started on December 31, 2023. Second, it requires the Secret Service Director to report to several congressional committees. The first report is due within 180 days of the law passing. More reports follow each year through 2028. Each report must describe current staffing levels, how many overtime hours employees are working, and plans to reduce heavy overtime. Those plans can include hiring more staff, spreading work more evenly, or finding other ways to run operations more efficiently. The section also raises a spending limit for Secret Service operations from $24 million to $40 million.

    Who this affects

    U.S. Secret Service employees who work overtime and exceed normal pay caps. Congressional committees that oversee homeland security, government operations, and the judiciary also receive the required reports.

    Tradeoff

    Allowing higher overtime pay addresses immediate staffing shortfalls but increases costs, while the reporting requirement creates accountability for how the agency plans to reduce its long-term reliance on overtime.

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    Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter through 2028, the Director shall submit to the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate...a report describing the steps that the United States Secret Service is taking to address the increased protective service demands placed upon United States Secret Service personnel.

28. Cybersecurity threat feed access for government agencies

    This section allows money set aside for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to be spent on cybersecurity threat feeds. A threat feed is a stream of data about current online dangers, such as known malicious websites or hacking methods. The funds can pay for these feeds not just for federal agencies, but also for state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. Fusion centers (places where agencies share security information) and Information Sharing and Analysis Organizations can also receive access. The goal is to give a wide range of government bodies real-time information about cyber threats.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies, state and local governments, tribal and territorial governments, fusion centers, and Information Sharing and Analysis Organizations all may benefit from this funding.

    Tradeoff

    Sharing threat feeds broadly can improve cybersecurity across many levels of government, but it also means spending a larger portion of the agency's budget on subscriptions or services that reach beyond the federal government.

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    Funds made available under the heading Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency—Operations and Support may be made available for the necessary expenses of procuring or providing access to cybersecurity threat feeds for branches, agencies, independent agencies, corporations, establishments, and instrumentalities of the Federal Government of the United States, State, local, tribal, and territorial entities, fusion centers...

29. Limit on grant administration spending

    This section sets a cap on how much grant money recipients can spend on paperwork and administrative tasks. Specifically, no more than 5 percent of a FEMA grant (from listed grant programs) can go toward running the grant itself. This applies to the main grant recipients. It also applies to state recipients who manage one of those grant programs on behalf of others. This overrides any other law that might allow a higher or different limit.

    Who this affects

    Organizations and state agencies that receive FEMA grants under the listed assistance programs. They must keep their administrative costs at or below 5 percent of the grant amount.

    Tradeoff

    Capping administrative costs keeps more grant money going to its intended purpose, but it may make it harder for smaller recipients to cover the real cost of managing a grant.

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    not more than 5 percent of the amount of a grant made available in paragraphs (1) through (5) under Federal Emergency Management Agency—Federal Assistance , may be used by the recipient for expenses directly related to administration of the grant.

30. FEMA grant application deadlines and funding penalty

    This section sets firm deadlines for FEMA grant applications under five specific funding categories. FEMA must post grant applications within 60 days of the law passing. Applicants then have 80 days to apply. FEMA must decide on each application within 65 days of receiving it. If FEMA misses the 60-day posting deadline, its own operating budget is cut by $100,000 for each day it is late. That same amount is also cut from the Mission Support budget.

    Who this affects

    FEMA grant applicants (such as local governments and emergency management agencies) and FEMA itself. Applicants get clearer timelines. FEMA faces a direct budget penalty for delays.

    Tradeoff

    The deadlines give applicants more certainty, but the automatic budget cuts could reduce FEMA's operating funds if the agency runs into delays posting the applications.

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    Amounts appropriated by this Act for Federal Emergency Management Agency—Operations and Support shall be reduced by $100,000 for each day past the 60-day requirement that applications are not made available to eligible applicants

31. FEMA grant announcement notice requirement

    This section requires the head of FEMA to give Congress a five-business-day heads-up before publicly announcing certain grant awards. The grants covered are those listed under categories (1) through (5), (9), and (10) of the Federal Assistance program. The briefing must go to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. If FEMA makes a public announcement before those five days are up, $1 million is automatically taken away from FEMA's operations and support budget. That same $1 million is also cut from the Mission Support line in the agency's spending table.

    Who this affects

    FEMA and its leadership, who must follow the notice rule. Congress members on Appropriations Committees, who receive the advance briefings.

    Tradeoff

    Congress gains advance notice of grant decisions, but the penalty reduces FEMA's operating funds if the rule is broken.

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    If any such public announcement is made before five full business days have elapsed following such briefing, $1,000,000 of amounts appropriated by this Act for Federal Emergency Management Agency—Operations and Support shall be rescinded

32. Communications towers allowed under FEMA grants

    This section says that installing a communications tower does not count as constructing a building or physical facility. That matters because FEMA's Federal Assistance grants under two specific paragraphs have rules about funding construction. By clarifying that towers are not construction, this section allows grant money to be used for installing communications towers without triggering those construction restrictions.

    Who this affects

    State, local, tribal, and territorial governments that apply for FEMA Federal Assistance grants. Emergency management agencies that want to use grant funds to install communications towers are directly affected.

    Tradeoff

    More grant money can go toward communications infrastructure, but it also means fewer limits on how those funds are spent in that category.

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    the installation of communications towers is not considered construction of a building or other physical facility.

33. Disaster Relief Fund reporting update for 2026

    This section updates existing reporting rules for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund. Those rules were first set in a 2015 law. The section makes two small changes for fiscal year 2026. First, it updates a year reference in one report from 2016 to 2027. Second, it changes a deadline in a second report from the 'fifth day' to the 'fifth business day.' Both reports give Congress information about the fund's budget and spending.

    Who this affects

    FEMA officials who prepare budget reports, and members of Congress who review Disaster Relief Fund spending.

    Tradeoff

    The changes keep reporting rules current and give report writers one more day when deadlines fall on weekends or holidays, but they do not change how much money is in the fund.

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    in paragraph (2) by inserting business after fifth

34. Flexibility for fire department staffing grants

    This section lets FEMA waive certain legal requirements when giving out SAFER grants. SAFER stands for Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response. Normally, fire departments must meet specific rules to get these grants. Those rules cover things like how the money is used, matching funds, and staffing conditions. Under this section, FEMA can set those rules aside for individual applicants. The waiver power applies to six specific parts of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974.

    Who this affects

    Local fire departments and emergency response agencies that apply for SAFER grants. FEMA administrators who decide which requirements to waive.

    Tradeoff

    Giving FEMA this flexibility lets more fire departments get funding, but it also means some standard accountability rules may not apply to every grant.

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    the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency may grant waivers from the requirements in subsections (a)(1)(A), (a)(1)(B), (a)(1)(E), (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(4) of section 34 of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974

35. Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program fee rules

    This section sets rules for fees charged under the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program. The total fees collected in fiscal year 2026 must cover at least 100 percent of what the Department of Homeland Security expects to spend on the program the following year. The fees must be set in a fair and equal way and must reflect the actual cost of services, including administrative costs. Money collected goes into a dedicated program account. It becomes available to spend starting October 1, 2026, and stays available until it is used up.

    Who this affects

    Nuclear power plant operators and others who are charged fees for radiological emergency preparedness services. The Department of Homeland Security administers the program and collects the fees.

    Tradeoff

    Requiring fees to fully cover program costs keeps taxpayers from subsidizing the program, but it may increase costs for the industries that pay the fees.

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    The aggregate charges assessed during fiscal year 2026...shall not be less than 100 percent of the amounts anticipated by the Department of Homeland Security to be necessary for its Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program for the next fiscal year.

36. Firefighter grant cost-share waiver option

    This section gives the head of FEMA the option to waive a cost-sharing rule for Assistance to Firefighters Grants. Normally, the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act requires fire departments to pay a share of the grant cost themselves. Under this section, FEMA can choose to skip that requirement. This means fire departments could receive the full grant amount without putting up their own matching funds.

    Who this affects

    Local fire departments that apply for federal Assistance to Firefighters Grants. It could especially help smaller or lower-budget departments that struggle to meet the normal cost-share requirement.

    Tradeoff

    Waiving the cost-share makes grants more accessible to fire departments with limited budgets, but it also means the federal government may cover a larger share of costs that departments would otherwise pay themselves.

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    the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency may waive subsection (k) of section 33 of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974

37. Transfer of old disaster mitigation funds to new program

    This section deals with leftover money from an older disaster prevention program. Before 2018, FEMA ran the National Predisaster Mitigation Fund under a specific law. Some of that money was never spent. This section moves those unspent dollars into the current version of the same program. The current program uses a set-aside account under an updated part of the same law. The transfer merges the old money with the new account so it can be used under today's rules.

    Who this affects

    FEMA and communities that apply for predisaster mitigation grants. Leftover funds become available under current program rules.

    Tradeoff

    Moving the old funds lets them be spent under updated rules, but those funds are no longer available under the original terms they were appropriated.

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    Any unobligated balances of funds appropriated in any prior Act for activities funded by the National Predisaster Mitigation Fund under section 203 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act...shall be transferred to and merged with funds set aside pursuant to subsection (i)(1) of section 203 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act

38. Transfer of unused flood mapping funds

    This section moves unspent money from an older flood mapping budget line into a current one. Specifically, any leftover funds from past years under the 'Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program' get shifted into the active 'Federal Assistance' flood mapping account. These transferred dollars add to, and do not replace, money already coming from the National Flood Insurance Fund or from states and local governments that share mapping costs. Once moved, the funds can be spent without a set deadline.

    Who this affects

    FEMA and its flood mapping program. States and local governments that partner with FEMA on cost-shared flood map projects are also affected.

    Tradeoff

    Moving leftover funds makes unused money available for current mapping work, but it reduces the separate accounting that lets Congress track how older appropriations were spent.

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    Any unobligated balances of funds appropriated under the heading Federal Emergency Management Agency—Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program in any prior Act shall be transferred to and merged with funds appropriated under the heading Federal Emergency Management Agency—Federal Assistance for necessary expenses for Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis

39. FEMA grant performance period requirement

    This section sets time limits on how long certain FEMA grants can last. Each grant under specific Federal Assistance categories must run for at least three years. No grant can run longer than five years. This rule applies to grant categories numbered 1 through 10 and 12 under FEMA Federal Assistance funding.

    Who this affects

    State, local, tribal, and other organizations that receive FEMA Federal Assistance grants. Grant managers and FEMA staff who set up and oversee these awards.

    Tradeoff

    A fixed time window gives grant recipients a clear schedule to plan spending, but it may not fit projects that finish quickly or need more than five years to complete.

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    Each award for grants under the heading Federal Emergency Management Agency—Federal Assistance for paragraphs (1) through (10) and (12), shall have a period of performance, as defined by 2 CFR 200.1, that shall be of not less than three years and not more than five years.

40. Public disaster aid spending dashboard

    This section requires FEMA to put a public, interactive dashboard on its website. The dashboard must show all requests for disaster reimbursement money. It must list amounts by state and separate individual aid from public aid. FEMA must post the information within 90 days of receiving it. If the information is under final review by the Department of Homeland Security, it must be posted within 60 days of that review. The dashboard must include at least seven specific data points named in a separate explanatory statement attached to this bill.

    Who this affects

    State and local governments, disaster survivors, and the general public who want to track federal disaster spending. FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security must comply with the posting deadlines.

    Tradeoff

    More public visibility into disaster spending increases government accountability, but it also requires FEMA staff time and resources to build and maintain the dashboard.

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    The Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall post an interactive dashboard on the public-facing website of the Federal Emergency Management Agency with any request for reimbursement for a covered expense, delineated by state and any amount for individual assistance or public assistance related to emergency or major disaster declarations

41. Rules for pausing FEMA training and grants

    This section limits when the government can pause FEMA-funded training programs or grants. Funds from this act cannot be used to pause such a program unless the Secretary of Homeland Security gives Congress at least 10 business days notice first. That notice must explain why the pause is happening, how missed classes will be made up, and what the pause will cost. The Secretary can skip the notice requirement only if there is an emergency that immediately threatens lives or property.

    Who this affects

    FEMA training participants and grant recipients are affected, as are emergency managers and local agencies that rely on FEMA-funded programs. The Secretary of Homeland Security must follow the notice rules or justify any exception.

    Tradeoff

    The notice requirement gives Congress oversight over program pauses, but it may slow the government's ability to act quickly in non-emergency situations.

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    None of the funds appropriated in this Act may be used to pause a training or grant funded under the heading Federal Emergency Management Agency—Federal Assistance . (b) Subsection (a) shall not apply if the Secretary of Homeland Security notifies the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate not more than 10 business days in advance of the pause.

42. USCIS vehicle use for employees in certain areas

    This section lets U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) spend its existing funds to buy, run, equip, and sell up to five vehicles. These vehicles are replacements only, not additions. They can only be used in areas where the federal General Services Administration does not provide vehicles to lease. The USCIS director can also allow employees in those areas to drive the vehicles between home and work.

    Who this affects

    USCIS employees who work in areas where the federal government does not offer leased vehicles. It also affects USCIS's operating budget, since the agency pays for the vehicles from its existing funds.

    Tradeoff

    Employees in remote or underserved areas get reliable transportation, but USCIS must use its own budget to cover the vehicle costs instead of using those funds for other purposes.

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    funds otherwise made available to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may be used to acquire, operate, equip, and dispose of up to 5 vehicles, for replacement only, for areas where the Administrator of General Services does not provide vehicles for lease.

43. Protection of certain immigration agency jobs from privatization review

    This section blocks money in this bill from being used to run a competitive bidding process for certain jobs at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The process in question, called an A-76 competition, is a federal review that compares the cost of having government workers do a job versus hiring a private contractor. The jobs protected include Immigration Information Officers, Immigration Service Analysts, Contact Representatives, Investigative Assistants, and Immigration Services Officers. This applies to both permanent and temporary employees. Without this restriction, USCIS could study whether to outsource these roles to private companies.

    Who this affects

    Federal employees at USCIS who hold the listed job titles, including temporary and term workers. Private contractors who might otherwise compete for those roles are also affected.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping these jobs in government hands protects federal workers from outsourcing, but it also limits the agency's ability to study whether private contractors could do the same work at lower cost.

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    None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be used to process or approve a competition under Office of Management and Budget Circular A–76 for services provided by employees (including employees serving on a temporary or term basis) of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

44. Virtual oversight of immigration biometrics collection

    This section allows federal money given to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to pay for collecting fingerprints and other biometrics at Application Support Centers. The key change is that USCIS staff do not have to be physically present at the center. Instead, they can oversee the process remotely using technology. This applies even if other laws would normally require something different.

    Who this affects

    People applying for immigration benefits who must visit a USCIS Application Support Center to provide biometrics. It also affects USCIS staff who would oversee those centers.

    Tradeoff

    Remote oversight can lower costs and expand access to more locations, but some may question whether virtual supervision provides the same level of security and accuracy as in-person oversight.

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    any Federal funds made available to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may be used for the collection and use of biometrics taken at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Application Support Center that is overseen virtually by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services personnel using appropriate technology.

45. Funding for federal law enforcement training accreditation

    This section lets the Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers send money to federal law enforcement agencies. The money covers costs those agencies face when they take part in training accreditation. Accreditation means a formal review that checks whether training programs meet set standards.

    Who this affects

    Federal law enforcement agencies that participate in accredited training programs. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers also plays a role as the distributor of funds.

    Tradeoff

    Agencies can get reimbursed for accreditation costs, which may improve training quality, but it also directs federal funds toward administrative review processes.

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    The Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers is authorized to distribute funds to Federal law enforcement agencies for expenses incurred participating in training accreditation.

46. Federal law enforcement training accreditation

    This section directs the Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation Board to lead a process for checking the quality of federal law enforcement training. The Board includes people from federal law enforcement agencies and outside experts who are not part of the federal government. Together, they measure and assess training programs, training facilities, and instructors. The goal is to keep improving how well federal officers are trained.

    Who this affects

    Federal law enforcement agencies and their training programs, facilities, and instructors. Outside accreditation experts also take part in the review process.

    Tradeoff

    Ongoing accreditation review can improve training quality, but it also requires time and resources from agencies to participate in and respond to the process.

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    The Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation Board, including representatives from the Federal law enforcement community and non-Federal accreditation experts involved in law enforcement training, shall lead the Federal law enforcement training accreditation process to continue the implementation of measuring and assessing the quality and effectiveness of Federal law enforcement training programs, facilities, and instructors.

47. Special-use facility construction at federal law enforcement training centers

    This section lets the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers accept money transfers from other government agencies. Those agencies can pay for the construction of special-use facilities at the Centers. The authority to do this comes from an existing law called the Economy Act. Once a facility is built, the Training Centers keep ownership and control of it, even if another agency paid for it.

    Who this affects

    Federal government agencies that need special training facilities built. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, which manage and own the completed buildings.

    Tradeoff

    Other agencies get facilities built to their needs, but give up ownership and control to the Training Centers once construction is done.

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    The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers shall maintain administrative control and ownership upon completion of such facilities.

48. Federal law enforcement trainer jobs classified as government-only work

    This section says that instructor staff at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers must be classified as 'inherently governmental.' That term has a specific legal meaning. It means the work can only be done by federal government employees. It cannot be outsourced to private contractors. The Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act requires agencies to keep a list of jobs that are too core to government to be contracted out. By placing these instructors on that list, the section locks in their status as federal employees.

    Who this affects

    Instructor staff at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, and private companies that might otherwise bid to provide those training services.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping these jobs in-house protects government control over law enforcement training, but it also limits the option to use private contractors who might offer lower costs.

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    The functions of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers instructor staff shall be classified as inherently governmental for purposes of the Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act of 1998 ( 31 U.S.C. 501 note).

49. Funds expire at end of fiscal year

    This section sets a default rule for all money provided in this Act. Any funds that are not spent or committed must be returned at the end of the fiscal year. Money cannot be carried over into the next year unless the Act specifically says it can be. This keeps agencies from holding onto unspent funds indefinitely.

    Who this affects

    All agencies and programs funded by this Act. It applies to any office or program that receives money under this law.

    Tradeoff

    Returning unused funds to the Treasury limits waste and keeps spending within the approved year, but it can also pressure agencies to spend money quickly rather than carefully.

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    No part of any appropriation contained in this Act shall remain available for obligation beyond the current fiscal year unless expressly so provided herein.

50. Transfer of leftover funds from prior years

    This section allows unspent money from earlier budgets to be moved into the matching accounts set up by this new spending bill. Once moved, those older funds are combined with the new funds in the same account. The combined money is then treated as one pool. It can only be spent during the same time window that was set when the original money was approved. This must follow the rules laid out in section 503 of the same bill.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies within the Department of Homeland Security that have leftover funds from prior budget years. It affects how those agencies track and spend that remaining money.

    Tradeoff

    Combining old and new funds simplifies accounting, but it also makes it harder to track exactly how prior-year money is being spent.

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    the unexpended balances of prior appropriations provided for activities in this Act may be transferred to appropriation accounts for such activities established pursuant to this Act, may be merged with funds in the applicable established accounts, and thereafter may be accounted for as one fund for the same time period as originally enacted.

51. Limits on moving money between DHS programs

    This section controls how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can shift money between programs without a new vote by Congress. DHS cannot move money in ways that create or kill programs, contract out federal jobs, or give a program more than $5 million or 10 percent extra, whichever is smaller. DHS also cannot cut a program's funding or staff by 10 percent or more. These rules apply unless DHS tells the House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least 30 days ahead of time. DHS may move up to 5 percent of any account to another account, but it cannot send that money to Customs and Border Protection or Immigration and Customs Enforcement accounts. No money can be moved after June 15 unless there is an emergency that threatens lives or property. A separate, smaller exception lets the Secretary transfer up to $20 million to a specific immigration-related fund with only 5 days of advance notice.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and its component agencies. It also affects federal employees whose jobs could otherwise be contracted out.

    Tradeoff

    The rules keep Congress informed and in control of how DHS uses its money, but they limit the agency's ability to respond quickly to changing needs.

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    augments funding for existing programs, projects, or activities in excess of $5,000,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less; (4) reduces funding for any program, project, or activity, or numbers of personnel, by 10 percent or more

52. Working capital fund rules

    This section keeps in place a rule first set in 2017 for how a shared fund inside the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works. That fund, called a working capital fund, lets DHS pay for shared services before it gets paid back by its own divisions. The section says the same rules that applied to that fund in 2017 also apply to money provided by this 2026 bill. It also says the fund can spend money in advance, as long as the various DHS divisions promise to repay it later.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and its internal divisions, which use the shared fund to pay for common services. Taxpayers fund the pool of money that keeps operations running.

    Tradeoff

    Allowing spending in advance keeps DHS operations running smoothly, but money is spent before repayment is confirmed, which creates a small financial risk if a division cannot reimburse the fund.

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    Funds from such working capital fund may be obligated and expended in anticipation of reimbursements from components of the Department of Homeland Security.

53. Carrying over unused operations funds into the next year

    This section lets federal agencies keep some unspent money from 2026. Normally, unused funds expire at the end of the fiscal year. Here, up to half of the leftover 'Operations and Support' funds can stay available through September 30, 2027. The money must still be used only for the same purpose it was originally given. Any agency that wants to use these carried-over funds must first notify the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, following the rules set out in Section 503 of this Act.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies funded under the DHS Operations and Support accounts. Taxpayers and Congress both have an interest in how these leftover funds are used.

    Tradeoff

    Agencies gain flexibility to use unspent funds a year later, but Congress keeps oversight by requiring advance notification before any money is spent.

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    not to exceed 50 percent of unobligated balances remaining available at the end of fiscal year 2026...shall remain available through September 30, 2027, in the account and for the purposes for which the appropriations were provided.

54. Temporary authorization for intelligence spending

    This section allows DHS intelligence funds in this bill to count as legally authorized for fiscal year 2026. That authorization lasts only until Congress passes a separate, formal intelligence authorization act. If the intelligence analysis office receives more money than that future authorization allows, the extra funds get moved to the DHS Management Directorate's budget. Before any of those moved funds can be spent, the Undersecretary for Management must first brief the House and Senate Appropriations Committees on how the money will be used.

    Who this affects

    The DHS Office of Intelligence, Analysis, and Situational Awareness and the DHS Management Directorate are directly affected. Congressional appropriations committees must be briefed before any transferred funds are spent.

    Tradeoff

    This keeps intelligence programs funded without a gap, but it also shifts spending oversight from the intelligence authorization process to the appropriations committees, which may reduce detailed scrutiny of how the funds are used.

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    Funds made available by this Act for intelligence activities are deemed to be specifically authorized by the Congress for purposes of section 504 of the National Security Act of 1947 during fiscal year 2026 until the enactment of an Act authorizing intelligence activities for fiscal year 2026.

55. Advance notice to Congress before large grants and contracts

    This section requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to notify the House and Senate Appropriations Committees at least three business days before awarding grants over $1 million, contracts over $2 million, or certain task orders over $5 million. It also covers sole-source grants and public announcements of planned awards. Each notice must include the dollar amount, the type of contract, the fiscal year the money came from, and the account being used. There is one exception: if the Secretary decides that waiting would put human life, health, or safety at serious risk, DHS can skip the advance notice. In that case, DHS must notify the committees within three business days after making the award.

    Who this affects

    DHS and its grantees and contractors are directly affected. Congress, specifically the Appropriations Committees, gains advance knowledge of large spending decisions.

    Tradeoff

    The notice requirement gives Congress more oversight of large DHS spending, but it adds a three-day delay to awarding grants and contracts, except in urgent safety situations.

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    The Secretary of Homeland Security, or the designee of the Secretary, shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate at least three full business days in advance of— (1) making or awarding a grant allocation or grant in excess of $1,000,000 or a grant made from the Disaster Relief Fund in excess of $100,000

56. Limits on new federal law enforcement training facilities

    This section restricts federal agencies from buying, building, or leasing new facilities for law enforcement training. Any new facility must be next to or inside an existing location. Before doing so, the agency must notify the House and Senate Appropriations Committees in advance. There is one exception: the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers can temporarily lease or contract extra space when its existing facilities cannot handle the needed training.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies that run law enforcement training programs. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers is also affected, but gets a limited exception for temporary extra space.

    Tradeoff

    Congress keeps closer watch over spending on new training sites, but agencies may have less flexibility to expand training capacity quickly when demand rises.

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    no agency shall purchase, construct, or lease any additional facilities, except within or contiguous to existing locations, to be used for the purpose of conducting Federal law enforcement training without advance notification to the Committees on Appropriations

57. Building project approval requirement

    This section blocks the use of any money from this law on building projects that have not received a required prospectus approval. A prospectus is a formal planning document required by federal law before major construction, repair, renovation, or property purchases can move forward. The only exception is spending needed to prepare and develop that prospectus document itself. In short, no money can flow to a project until the proper paperwork has been reviewed and approved.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies under the Department of Homeland Security that want to build, repair, renovate, or buy property. Contractors and vendors tied to those projects are also affected.

    Tradeoff

    This rule adds an approval step that protects against unplanned spending, but it can slow down projects that may be urgent or time-sensitive.

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    None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used for expenses for any construction, repair, alteration, or acquisition project for which a prospectus otherwise required under chapter 33 of title 40, United States Code, has not been approved

58. Carry over rules from a 2008 spending law

    This section says that two specific rules from a 2008 Homeland Security spending law still apply to the money provided in this new bill. Those two rules, sections 522 and 530 of the 2008 law, set conditions on how certain funds can be used. By referencing them here, Congress makes those same conditions apply now without rewriting them word for word.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies and offices that receive Homeland Security funding under this bill. They must follow the same spending rules that applied in 2008.

    Tradeoff

    Reusing old rules saves drafting time and keeps consistency, but it also means readers must look up a separate 2008 law to fully understand the current spending limits.

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    Sections 522 and 530 of the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2008 (division E of Public Law 110–161 ; 121 Stat. 2073 and 2074) shall apply with respect to funds made available in this Act in the same manner as such sections applied to funds made available in that Act.

59. Buy American requirement for Homeland Security spending

    This section says that no money from this bill can be spent in a way that breaks the Buy American Act. That law (found in chapter 83 of title 41 of the U.S. Code) generally requires the federal government to buy goods made in the United States. The section points directly to that existing law so the rule is clear.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies and contractors who receive or spend money under this bill. Any vendor selling goods to those agencies must meet existing Buy American rules.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping spending tied to U.S.-made goods may support domestic manufacturers but can limit choices and raise costs if foreign options are cheaper.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used in contravention of the applicable provisions of the Buy American Act.

60. Protecting the citizenship oath from changes

    This section bars any money from this bill from being used to change the citizenship oath. The oath is set by section 337 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. New citizens say this oath when they become U.S. citizens. No agency could use these funds to rewrite or alter the oath's wording.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies that oversee naturalization, and people going through the citizenship process.

    Tradeoff

    The oath stays the same, but Congress cannot use this funding to update the oath's language even if a change were desired.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to amend the oath of allegiance required by section 337 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1448).

61. Limits on reorganizing homeland security offices without Congress

    This section blocks the Department of Homeland Security from using a specific reorganization law (Section 872 of the Homeland Security Act) unless Congress approves it after this bill becomes law. There are two exceptions. First, the Secretary can still move the duties of the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office to other parts of the department, but only if those moves match an approved budget table. Second, the Secretary can shift money from older spending laws into the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office to support those same moves. The goal is to keep Congress in control of major department reorganizations.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and its leadership. It also affects the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office and its staff.

    Tradeoff

    Congress keeps closer oversight of how the department is reorganized, but the department has less flexibility to restructure on its own.

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    None of the funds provided or otherwise made available by this Act may be made available to carry out section 872 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 ( 6 U.S.C. 452 ) unless explicitly authorized by the Congress after the date of enactment of this Act.

62. Ban on national ID card development

    Section 514 blocks any money in this bill from being used to plan, test, pilot, or develop a national identification card. No agency funded by this bill can work toward creating such a card in any form. This type of restriction has appeared in many past spending bills.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies funded by this bill, and any contractors or partners they might hire for identification projects.

    Tradeoff

    The ban prevents any federal move toward a national ID, but it also blocks even early research into whether such a system could improve identity verification or security.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used for planning, testing, piloting, or developing a national identification card.

63. No delegation of required reporting duties

    This section says that when a government official is required by this Act to send a report or sign a certification to Congress, that official must do it personally. They cannot hand off that duty to someone else unless the Act specifically allows it. This keeps accountability with the named official, not a subordinate.

    Who this affects

    Senior Department of Homeland Security officials who have reporting or certification duties under this Act. Congressional appropriations committees also rely on this rule to ensure they hear directly from the responsible official.

    Tradeoff

    This rule strengthens direct accountability to Congress, but it can slow down reporting if the required official is unavailable.

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    Any official that is required by this Act to report or to certify to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate may not delegate such authority to perform that act unless specifically authorized herein.

64. Ban on first-class travel spending

    This section blocks money from this bill from being spent on first-class travel for employees of Homeland Security agencies. Federal rules in title 41 of the Code of Federal Regulations already limit when government employees can fly or travel first class. This section makes those rules a funding condition. If an agency spends money on first-class travel that breaks those rules, it violates this law.

    Who this affects

    Employees of agencies funded by this Homeland Security bill who travel for work.

    Tradeoff

    Taxpayer money is protected from premium travel costs, but employees cannot use first-class travel even when they might personally prefer it.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used for first-class travel by the employees of agencies funded by this Act in contravention of sections 301–10.122 through 301–10.124 of title 41, Code of Federal Regulations.

65. Ban on hiring unauthorized workers with federal funds

    This section blocks any money from this bill from being used to pay workers who are not legally authorized to work in the United States. The reference is to a specific part of immigration law that defines workers who lack legal work authorization. In short, no Homeland Security funds from this bill can pay for labor by people who are unauthorized to work here.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies and contractors receiving funds from this bill. Workers who are not legally authorized to work in the United States.

    Tradeoff

    This restriction ensures federal money does not pay unauthorized workers, but it adds a compliance burden on agencies and contractors to verify work authorization.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to employ workers described in section 274A(h)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ( 8 U.S.C. 1324a(h)(3) ).

66. No bonus pay for poor contractor performance

    This section says that no money from this bill can be used to pay bonuses or incentive fees to contractors. The ban applies when a contractor's work has been rated below satisfactory. It also applies when a contractor has not met the basic requirements of their contract. In other words, a contractor must at least do the job as required before earning any extra performance pay.

    Who this affects

    Government contractors working under Department of Homeland Security contracts. It also affects agency officials who approve contractor payments.

    Tradeoff

    Contractors who perform poorly save the government money by losing bonus pay, but contractors may also argue that disputed ratings could unfairly block earned fees.

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    none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used to pay award or incentive fees for contractor performance that has been judged to be below satisfactory performance or performance that does not meet the basic requirements of a contract.

67. Blocking pornography on government computer networks

    This section says no money from this bill can be used to run a government computer network unless that network blocks pornography. Blocking means users cannot view, download, or exchange it. There is one exception: law enforcement agencies and related entities can still access such content if they need it for criminal investigations, prosecutions, or court proceedings.

    Who this affects

    Department of Homeland Security employees and contractors using government computer networks. Law enforcement personnel are exempt when doing official investigative or legal work.

    Tradeoff

    The rule limits access to certain online content on government networks, but carving out an exemption for law enforcement adds complexity in deciding who qualifies for that exception.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to maintain or establish a computer network unless such network blocks the viewing, downloading, and exchanging of pornography.

68. Ban on transferring guns to suspected drug cartel agents

    This section stops federal law enforcement officers from giving a working firearm to someone they know or suspect works for a drug cartel. The only exception is if U.S. law enforcement keeps the gun under constant watch or control at all times. This is aimed at preventing situations where guns end up in the hands of cartel members without ongoing oversight.

    Who this affects

    Federal law enforcement officers and any suspected drug cartel agents they might interact with.

    Tradeoff

    The rule adds a firm safeguard against guns reaching cartels, but it limits the ability of officers to run certain undercover operations where they cannot maintain constant control of a transferred firearm.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used by a Federal law enforcement officer to facilitate the transfer of an operable firearm to an individual if the Federal law enforcement officer knows or suspects that the individual is an agent of a drug cartel unless law enforcement personnel of the United States continuously monitor or control the firearm at all times.

69. Limits on DHS employee travel to international conferences

    This section sets rules for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employees attending international conferences. No more than 50 employees from any single DHS component may travel to one international conference using funds from this bill. If the Secretary of Homeland Security wants to send more than 50 employees, the Secretary must decide it serves the national interest and must tell Congress at least 10 days before. The total cost for any such conference cannot exceed $500,000. Employees who attend the conference online from their regular work location in the United States are not counted toward the 50-person limit and are not subject to these restrictions.

    Who this affects

    DHS employees stationed in the United States who travel to international conferences. DHS leadership must notify Congress when exceptions are needed.

    Tradeoff

    The rules limit spending and large group travel to international meetings, but could also limit DHS participation in conferences that involve foreign governments or international organizations.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to pay for the travel to or attendance of more than 50 employees of a single component of the Department of Homeland Security, who are stationed in the United States, at a single international conference unless the Secretary of Homeland Security, or a designee, determines that such attendance is in the national interest and notifies the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate within at least 10 days of that determination and the basis for that determination.

70. No reimbursement for National Special Security Events

    This section says that none of the money in this bill can be used to pay back other federal departments or agencies for work they do at a National Special Security Event. These events are high-profile gatherings, such as presidential inaugurations or major political conventions, that get extra federal protection. Normally, one agency might cover costs for another agency that helps provide security. This section blocks that kind of reimbursement.

    Who this affects

    Federal departments and agencies that provide security or support at National Special Security Events. Those agencies would not be paid back from this bill's funds for that work.

    Tradeoff

    Blocking reimbursement may save money in this bill, but other agencies could be left absorbing the costs of providing security at major national events.

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    None of the funds made available in this Act may be used to reimburse any Federal department or agency for its participation in a National Special Security Event.

71. DHS pay and job classification changes require congressional notice

    This section limits when the Department of Homeland Security can spend money on big changes to employee pay or job titles. Specifically, any change that affects more than 100 full-time workers, or costs more than $5 million in one year, must be reported to Congress first. The department must wait 30 days after sending that report before spending any money on the change. The report must explain how many workers are affected, what it will cost now and in the future, and why the change is needed. For pay reforms, the department must also show what other options it considered. This waiting period does not apply if the President already proposed the change in the annual budget and Congress has not blocked it.

    Who this affects

    DHS employees in roles that could be subject to pay restructuring or job reclassification. It also affects DHS leadership, who must notify Congress before acting on large workforce changes.

    Tradeoff

    Congress gains more oversight of large workforce decisions at DHS, but the 30-day notice requirement could slow down pay or staffing changes the department wants to make quickly.

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    None of the funds made available to the Department of Homeland Security by this or any other Act may be obligated for the implementation of any structural pay reform or the introduction of any new position classification that will affect more than 100 full-time positions or costs more than $5,000,000 in a single year before the end of the 30-day period beginning on the date on which the Secretary of Homeland Security submits to Congress a notification

72. Public posting of agency reports

    This section requires agencies that get funding under this bill to post certain reports on their public websites. The agency head must decide that posting serves the national interest. There are two exceptions: the report cannot be posted if it would harm homeland or national security, or if it contains proprietary information. Before posting, the agency must wait at least 45 days after giving the report to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. If an agency does not follow these posting rules, it loses its ability to move money between accounts under Section 503 of this Act.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies that receive funding under this bill. The public may gain access to government reports that were previously only shared with Congress.

    Tradeoff

    More public access to agency reports increases transparency, but agencies can withhold reports for security or proprietary reasons, which limits that transparency.

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    The head of the agency posting such report shall do so only after such report has been made available to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate for not less than 45 days

73. Small purchases allowed under Operations and Support funds

    This section lets Department of Homeland Security offices use their regular Operations and Support money for small purchases and construction projects. Personal property items, such as equipment, must cost $250,000 or less per unit. Real property projects, such as building improvements, must cost $4,000,000 or less. Purchases above those limits would need separate procurement funding.

    Who this affects

    Homeland Security offices and staff who manage day-to-day budgets. It also affects contractors who bid on small DHS purchases and construction jobs.

    Tradeoff

    Allowing routine funds to cover small purchases gives agencies more flexibility, but it also means less separate oversight for those smaller spending decisions.

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    minor refers to end items with a unit cost of $250,000 or less for personal property, and $4,000,000 or less for real property.

74. School enrollment for dependents of DHS employees

    This section keeps in place a rule that was first set in a 2018 law. That rule lets children of certain Department of Homeland Security employees attend primary and secondary schools under specific conditions. The section simply extends this rule through the end of fiscal year 2026, so it does not expire.

    Who this affects

    Children of Department of Homeland Security employees who rely on this schooling authority. It also affects the schools and districts that enroll those children.

    Tradeoff

    Continuing the authority keeps schooling options available for affected families, but it also continues any costs or administrative responsibilities tied to the original 2018 rule.

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    The authority provided by section 532 of the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2018 ( Public Law 115–141 ) regarding primary and secondary schooling of dependents shall continue in effect during fiscal year 2026.

75. Restraint limits for pregnant women in DHS custody

    This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security can restrain pregnant women or women recovering from childbirth. As a general rule, no federal funds in this bill can pay for restraints on those women during transport, at detention facilities, or at medical facilities. There are two exceptions. First, a DHS official can approve restraints if the woman is a serious flight risk or poses an immediate threat to herself or others, and no other method can prevent that risk. Second, a medical professional can approve restraints for the woman's own medical safety. Even when restraints are allowed, only the safest and least restrictive type may be used. No restraints are permitted at all during active labor or delivery. Certain positions, such as face-down with four-point restraints, on her back, or with a belt around the pregnancy area, are always banned. If a restrained woman cannot move on her own, she must be placed on her left side as much as possible.

    Who this affects

    Pregnant women and women in post-delivery recovery who are held in DHS custody. It also affects DHS officials and medical staff who oversee detainees.

    Tradeoff

    The rule protects detained pregnant women from physical harm, but it limits the options available to officials managing detainees who may be a flight or safety risk.

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    In no case may restraints be used on a woman who is in active labor or delivery, and in no case may a pregnant woman be restrained in a face-down position with four-point restraints, on her back, or in a restraint belt that constricts the area of the pregnancy.

76. Records protection for people in DHS custody

    This section says no money from this law can be used to destroy records about people held in DHS custody. The protected records include documents about a detainee's death, possible sexual assault or abuse against a detainee, or any allegation of abuse, crime, or disruption made against a detainee. The section also gives detainees a right to see these records. If a detainee is charged with a crime, placed in solitary, or punished based on an allegation, they can ask for the records related to that allegation. The records must be shared following existing laws, regulations, and court rules about disclosure.

    Who this affects

    People held in DHS detention facilities. It also affects DHS staff who handle records related to detainee deaths, assaults, and misconduct allegations.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping and sharing these records protects detainees from unfair punishment, but it requires DHS to store more records and respond to more disclosure requests.

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    None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to destroy any document, recording, or other record pertaining to any— (1) death of; (2) potential sexual assault or abuse perpetrated against; or (3) allegation of abuse, criminal activity, or disruption committed by an individual held in the custody of the Department of Homeland Security.

77. Ban on funding for Principal Federal Official positions

    This section keeps in place an older rule from a 2015 spending law. That rule blocks federal money from being used to pay for any position with the title 'Principal Federal Official.' The ban now applies to any federal funds covered by this bill, just as it did under the original 2015 law.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies that might create or fill a 'Principal Federal Official' role. It also affects anyone who might be appointed to such a position.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping this ban limits the government's ability to create a specific coordination role, but it also prevents spending money on a position Congress has repeatedly chosen not to fund.

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    Section 519 of division F of Public Law 114–113 , regarding a prohibition on funding for any position designated as a Principal Federal Official, shall apply with respect to any Federal funds in the same manner as such section applied to funds made available in that Act.

78. Homeland Security unfunded priorities report

    This section requires a top official at the Department of Homeland Security to send a report to Congress within 10 days after the President submits a budget. The report must list needs that did not get funded in that budget. These are called 'unfunded priorities.' The report must cover the whole department and each part of it separately. For each unfunded priority, the report must describe the goal, name the account and program, and state how many jobs would be created or supported. A need counts as an unfunded priority if it was left out of the budget but is required for an operational or emergency plan, and if it would have been included had more money been available, or if it came up after the budget was written, or if it is needed to keep past investments working.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and its sub-components are affected. Congress receives the report and uses it to see funding gaps.

    Tradeoff

    This gives Congress more visibility into unmet security needs, but compiling and submitting the report within 10 days adds a short-deadline workload to department staff.

    Show the exact bill text

    Not later than 10 days after the date on which the budget of the President for a fiscal year is submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105(a) of title 31, United States Code, the Under Secretary for Management of Homeland Security shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on the unfunded priorities, for the Department of Homeland Security and separately for each departmental component

79. Congressional notice for protecting former government officials

    This section sets rules for when the President orders Secret Service protection for a former or retired government official. Within 10 days of that order, the Secretary of Homeland Security must notify specific congressional committees. The notice must include the threat assessment, scope of protection, and expected cost and duration. It can be classified if needed. Before extending or ending that protection, the Secretary must again notify Congress, with 15 days notice for an extension and 30 days notice for a termination. Starting within 45 days of this law passing, and every three months after, the Secretary must send Congress a report listing each protected person and the cost and scope of their protection.

    Who this affects

    Former and retired government officials who receive presidentially directed protection. Congressional committees that oversee homeland security, appropriations, and judiciary matters.

    Tradeoff

    Congress gains more oversight of protection costs and decisions, but the added reporting could slow or complicate protection choices, especially in urgent situations.

    Show the exact bill text

    Not later than 10 days after a determination is made by the President to evaluate and initiate protection under any authority for a former or retired Government official or employee...the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit a notification to congressional leadership and the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate

80. Congressional oversight of technology modernization funding

    This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can use money from the Technology Modernization Fund. Before DHS submits a project proposal to that fund, it must notify Congress and send a copy of the proposal to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. DHS must also explain whether the new funding would add to or replace money already requested in its budget. Even after a project is approved, DHS cannot spend the money until 15 days after sending Congress a detailed report. That report must include the full proposal, the repayment plan, the agreement with the fund, and an analysis of how the project relates to existing DHS spending.

    Who this affects

    DHS agencies seeking technology modernization loans or grants. House and Senate Appropriations Committees gain a review window before funds can be spent.

    Tradeoff

    This adds transparency and congressional review, but it also slows down the process of getting and using technology modernization funds.

    Show the exact bill text

    None of the funds provided to the Department of Homeland Security by the Technology Modernization Fund shall be available for obligation until 15 days after a report on such funds has been transmitted to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

81. Backup spending plan if proposed fees are not approved

    This section requires the Department of Homeland Security to have a backup plan ready. If the department's 2027 budget relies on new user fees that have not yet been passed into law, the department must act within 60 days of submitting that budget. It must show Congress exactly how it would cut spending by the same amount as those unearned fees. This report goes to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. The deadline for having those fees enacted is October 1, 2026. If the fees are not law by then, the department needs a clear plan to reduce its budget instead.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and the congressional committees that oversee its budget. Indirectly, it affects any programs that could face spending cuts if proposed fees do not become law.

    Tradeoff

    This rule pushes for budget honesty by requiring a concrete backup plan, but it also means the department must spend time preparing detailed cuts that may never be needed.

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    the Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate specific reductions in proposed discretionary budget authority commensurate with the revenues assumed in such proposals in the event that they are not enacted prior to October 1, 2026.

82. Block on Arms Trade Treaty spending

    This section stops any money from this bill being spent to carry out the Arms Trade Treaty. The ban stays in place until the U.S. Senate votes to ratify the treaty. The Arms Trade Treaty is an international agreement that sets rules for the global trade of conventional weapons. Until the Senate gives its formal approval, no funds can go toward putting the treaty into effect.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies that might otherwise work on treaty-related activities. It also affects any international partners or programs connected to the treaty.

    Tradeoff

    The restriction keeps the U.S. from spending money on a treaty not yet ratified, but it also delays any treaty-related work even if the executive branch wanted to move forward.

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    None of the funds made available by this Act may be obligated or expended to implement the Arms Trade Treaty until the Senate approves a resolution of ratification for the Treaty.

83. Ban on DHS contracts with certain Chinese military-linked companies

    This section blocks the Department of Homeland Security from doing business with companies listed under a 2021 defense law. That law, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act, identifies entities connected to the Chinese military. The ban covers contracts, agreements, grants, loans, and guarantees. It also covers any subsidiaries of those listed companies. No DHS money can flow to these entities in any of those ways.

    Who this affects

    Companies on the 1260H list and their subsidiaries cannot receive DHS funds or contracts. DHS agencies that might otherwise work with or fund those companies are also affected.

    Tradeoff

    The restriction reduces potential security risks from Chinese military-linked firms, but it may limit DHS purchasing options or partnerships if a listed entity offers specialized goods or services.

    Show the exact bill text

    No Federal funds made available to the Department of Homeland Security may be used to enter into a procurement contract, memorandum of understanding, or cooperative agreement with, or make a grant to, or provide a loan or guarantee to, any entity identified under section 1260H of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 ( Public Law 116–283 ) or any subsidiary of such entity.

84. Ban on transferring Guantanamo detainees to U.S. soil

    This section blocks any federal money from being used to move Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or other Guantanamo detainees into the United States, its territories, or possessions. The ban covers any non-U.S. citizen who is not a U.S. military member and who was held at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Station on or after June 24, 2009. No funds from this bill or any other law may pay for such a transfer or release. The restriction applies to moving detainees here for any reason, including trial, imprisonment, or other purposes.

    Who this affects

    Detainees held at Guantanamo Bay who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. military members. It also affects federal agencies that might otherwise arrange or fund such transfers.

    Tradeoff

    The restriction keeps detainees off U.S. soil, but it limits the government's options for handling prosecutions, detention, or other legal proceedings that might require a U.S. location.

    Show the exact bill text

    None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available in this or any other Act may be used to transfer, release, or assist in the transfer or release to or within the United States, its territories, or possessions Khalid Sheikh Mohammed or any other detainee who— (1) is not a United States citizen or a member of the Armed Forces of the United States; and (2) is or was held on or after June 24, 2009, at the United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, by the Department of Defense.

85. Employee emergency backup care program

    This section allows money already set aside for Operations and Support to pay for an emergency backup care program for employees. Backup care programs help workers find short-term care for a child or other dependent when their normal care falls through. The funds can come from this bill or any other appropriations law that provides Operations and Support money.

    Who this affects

    Department of Homeland Security employees who need short-term, backup care for a child or dependent. Taxpayers fund the benefit through existing Operations and Support budgets.

    Tradeoff

    Employees get a work benefit that may help them stay on the job during care emergencies, but it uses funds from a budget category meant for general agency operations.

    Show the exact bill text

    Funds made available in this Act or any other Act for Operations and Support may be used for the necessary expenses of providing an employee emergency back-up care program.

86. Financial penalties for FEMA reporting and reimbursement delays

    This section creates two financial penalties for FEMA. First, if FEMA does not submit and publish a required monthly disaster fund report within five business days of the deadline, its management office loses $100,000 per day until the report appears. Second, if more than 500 disaster reimbursement requests have been sitting in final review for over 60 days, the same management office loses $100,000 per day that number stays above 500. The second penalty is paused if the Disaster Relief Fund is running so low that money can only be spent on life-saving or life-sustaining activities.

    Who this affects

    FEMA's management office budget is directly affected. People and communities waiting for disaster assistance reimbursements are also affected, since the rule is meant to speed up their payments.

    Tradeoff

    The penalties are meant to push FEMA to report faster and clear backlogs, but the money reduced from management could limit the staff and resources available to do that work.

    Show the exact bill text

    the amount made available for Office of the Secretary and Executive Management—Operations and Support—Management and Oversight shall be reduced by $100,000 for each day such report is not submitted and published on the Agency's website.

87. Extension of CARES Act pandemic housing provision

    This section extends a specific rule from the 2020 CARES Act pandemic relief law. That rule, found in Section 16005(c), is changed so it stays in effect until September 30, 2026. The original law had an earlier end date. By rewriting the end date, Congress keeps the underlying policy active for longer. The underlying provision (subsection (a) of that CARES Act section) relates to housing assistance programs created during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Who this affects

    People and programs covered by the original CARES Act housing provision. Federal agencies that administer those programs are also affected.

    Tradeoff

    Extending the provision keeps pandemic-era housing rules in place longer, which may help people still relying on those programs but also continues spending and rules that were designed as temporary.

    Show the exact bill text

    Subsection (a) shall apply until September 30, 2026.

88. Classified program funding levels

    This section says that funding amounts for secret government programs must match what is written in a separate classified document. That document travels with this bill but is not public. Any spending on those programs must also follow the rules set out in section 545 of the same bill.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies and programs whose budgets are kept secret for national security reasons. The general public cannot see the specific dollar amounts involved.

    Tradeoff

    Keeping funding details secret can protect sensitive operations, but it limits public oversight of how taxpayer money is spent.

    Show the exact bill text

    The levels for appropriations accounts specified for classified programs in this Act shall conform to the direction included in the classified annex accompanying this Act and shall be implemented in a manner consistent with section 545.

89. Intelligence budget transfer authority

    This section lets the Director of National Intelligence move money within the National Intelligence Program budget. To do this, the Director needs approval from both the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Office of Management and Budget. The transfer must stay within percentage limits set elsewhere in the bill. The money can only be moved for higher-priority intelligence needs that were not expected when the budget was first written. Funds cannot be moved to pay for anything Congress already refused to fund. Any transfer request must also follow a separate set of reporting rules listed in another part of the bill.

    Who this affects

    The Director of National Intelligence and intelligence agencies that receive National Intelligence Program funding. Taxpayers are affected because it changes how already-approved funds are spent.

    Tradeoff

    This flexibility lets intelligence leaders respond quickly to unexpected needs, but it also means money can be redirected away from items Congress originally approved.

    Show the exact bill text

    the Director may, with the approval of the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, transfer amounts for the National Intelligence Program consistent with the percentage caps specified in section 503(c)

90. Quarterly spending and fee reports to Congress

    This section requires the Department of Homeland Security to send reports to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. The first report is due within seven days of the law taking effect. After that, reports are due every three months. Each report must include three things. First, a plan showing how money from a prior funding law will be spent, broken down by program or activity. Second, an estimate of fees that each part of the Department will collect, showing what will be kept and what will be sent to other agencies or the Treasury. Third, a spending plan for the fees that each part of the Department keeps for itself.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security and its component agencies are directly affected. Congress receives the reports and uses them to track spending.

    Tradeoff

    The reports give Congress more visibility into how money is spent and fees are used, but they require the Department to spend staff time preparing detailed plans on a tight and ongoing schedule.

    Show the exact bill text

    Within seven days of the date of enactment of this Act, and quarterly thereafter, the Department shall submit to the Committees on Appropriation of the House of Representatives and the Senate— (1) an obligation plan by program, project, or activity for each component receiving funds from Public Law 119–21

91. Congressional access to immigration detention facilities

    This section says no federal money can be used to block Members of Congress from visiting facilities that hold immigrants. Staff members chosen by a Member of Congress can also visit. Facilities cannot make temporary changes to hide normal conditions during a visit. Members of Congress do not need to give advance notice before showing up. Staff members, however, can be required to give at least 24 hours notice. If the Department of Homeland Security does not follow these rules, a separate budget authority that lets the department move money around is suspended for the rest of that fiscal year.

    Who this affects

    Members of Congress and their designated staff who want to inspect immigration detention facilities. It also affects the Department of Homeland Security and people held in those facilities.

    Tradeoff

    Allowing unannounced congressional visits improves oversight but limits the department's ability to prepare for or manage such visits.

    Show the exact bill text

    None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Homeland Security by this Act or any other Act...may be used to prevent any of the following persons from entering, for the purpose of conducting oversight, any facility used to detain, or otherwise house aliens, or to make any temporary modification at any such facility that in any way alters what is observed by a visiting Member of Congress.

92. Extra funding for Supreme Court salaries and expenses

    This section adds $30 million to the Supreme Court's budget for salaries and general expenses. The money is on top of what the Court already receives. It can be spent anytime before September 30, 2028. The funds must follow the same rules as the regular Supreme Court budget set in the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2026.

    Who this affects

    The Supreme Court of the United States and its staff. Taxpayers fund this spending.

    Tradeoff

    The extra $30 million gives the Court more resources for operations and pay, but it adds to federal spending.

    Show the exact bill text

    there is appropriated $30,000,000, for an additional amount for The Judiciary—Supreme Court of the United States—Salaries and Expenses, to remain available until September 30, 2028

93. Pay raise for air traffic controllers

    This section sets aside $140 million for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The money can only be used for one purpose: a 3.8 percent pay raise in 2026 for air traffic controllers and their supervisors or managers. The raise is not automatic. The FAA Administrator must first decide that the agency has made real improvements in scheduling, staffing, or other operational practices that help fix worker shortages and improve safety. If the Administrator makes that finding, the raise takes effect in the first pay period after January 1, 2026. The funds are available through September 30, 2027.

    Who this affects

    Air traffic controllers and supervisors or managers who oversee air traffic. The FAA Administrator decides whether the conditions are met.

    Tradeoff

    Controllers could get a pay raise, but only if the FAA Administrator finds that specific operational improvements have been made, giving one official full discretion over whether workers receive the increase.

    Show the exact bill text

    the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall only use such amounts to provide a rate of pay increase for calendar year 2026 of 3.8 percent, for air traffic controllers...such adjustment shall be implemented for all such employees only to the extent the Administrator determines, in his sole discretion, that improvements in workforce scheduling, staffing utilization, or other operational efficiencies are achieved

94. Transfer of cybersecurity funds to operations

    This section moves up to $99.75 million in leftover money to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for day-to-day operations. The money comes from a separate cybersecurity response and recovery fund that was set up by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Those leftover funds were never spent on their original purpose. After the transfer, the money still counts under the same spending rules that applied before, as set by a 2023 law.

    Who this affects

    The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the federal programs that depend on its operations. Taxpayers are not asked for new money; existing unspent funds are redirected.

    Tradeoff

    Using leftover funds keeps CISA operations running without new spending, but it reduces the money available in the cybersecurity response and recovery fund for future incidents.

    Show the exact bill text

    $99,750,000 shall be derived by transfer from the unobligated balances of amounts previously appropriated under the heading Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency—Cybersecurity Response and Recovery Fund

95. Cancellation of unspent Homeland Security funds

    This section takes back, or rescinds, money that was already given to several Department of Homeland Security accounts but never spent or committed. The total pulled back is about $89.3 million. The money comes from seven specific accounts. These include funds for DHS management, Customs and Border Protection operations, border fencing technology, air and marine operations, and cybersecurity infrastructure. One rule applies: money that Congress previously labeled an emergency cannot be taken back under this section.

    Who this affects

    Federal agencies within the Department of Homeland Security, including Customs and Border Protection and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Taxpayers are affected because unspent money is returned to the federal government.

    Tradeoff

    Returning unspent money reduces future federal debt, but it also removes funds that agencies could have used for planned projects.

    Show the exact bill text

    Of the funds appropriated to the Department of Homeland Security, the following funds are hereby rescinded from the following accounts and programs in the specified amounts: Provided, That no amounts may be rescinded from amounts that were designated by the Congress as an emergency requirement

96. Cancellation of unused Homeland Security funds

    This section cancels unspent money that had been set aside for twelve Department of Homeland Security offices. The funds were originally made available under the 2024 and 2025 spending laws but were never used. The total amount canceled is roughly $111.7 million. Each agency loses a specific amount. For example, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency loses about $52.3 million, the Federal Emergency Management Agency loses about $18.5 million, and the Transportation Security Administration loses about $19.7 million. Once these funds are rescinded, the agencies can no longer spend them.

    Who this affects

    Twelve DHS offices and agencies, including border protection, emergency management, cybersecurity, and immigration services. Taxpayers and program recipients could be affected if planned spending is cut.

    Tradeoff

    Canceling unused funds reduces government spending, but the agencies lose money they could have spent on operations or future needs.

    Show the exact bill text

    $52,349,050 from Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency—Operations and Support . (9) $18,525,975 from Federal Emergency Management Agency—Operations and Support .

97. Cancellation of unspent DHS technology fund money

    This section cancels $2,362,000 from the Department of Homeland Security's Nonrecurring Expenses Fund. That fund was created in 2022 to pay for one-time costs like technology upgrades and facility improvements. The money being canceled has not yet been committed to any specific project. Canceling it means those funds go back to the Treasury instead of being available for future DHS use.

    Who this affects

    The Department of Homeland Security, which loses access to these unspent funds for future one-time projects.

    Tradeoff

    Canceling the funds reduces potential government spending, but it also removes money that DHS could have used for technology or facility improvements.

    Show the exact bill text

    $2,362,000 are hereby rescinded.

98. Ban on Coast Guard G-700 aircraft use by Homeland Security Secretary

    This section blocks any federal money from being spent on Coast Guard G-700 aircraft for the Secretary of Homeland Security to travel on. The ban covers funds from this bill and all other federal funding sources, including money from past laws. It applies to any G-700 aircraft owned or operated by the U.S. Coast Guard.

    Who this affects

    The Secretary of Homeland Security, who would lose access to Coast Guard G-700 jets for official travel. The U.S. Coast Guard is also affected, as its aircraft use is restricted.

    Tradeoff

    This provision limits a travel option for the Secretary, which could reduce costs or perceived misuse of military aircraft, but may also require alternative travel arrangements.

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    None of the funds provided in this or any other Act, including prior Acts and laws other than appropriations Acts, may be obligated or expended for the Secretary of Homeland Security to use any G-700 aircraft that is owned or operated by the United States Coast Guard for travel.

99. Explanatory statement rules for spending guidance

    This section gives official weight to a written explanatory statement published in the Congressional Record on January 22, 2026. That statement explains how funds in this Act should be divided and spent. It works as if it were a formal joint agreement between House and Senate negotiators. However, the section carves out two agencies: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Any spending language or dollar amounts written for those two agencies in that same statement have no legal force under this Act.

    Who this affects

    All agencies funded by this Act are affected. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement are specifically excluded from the guidance that binds all other agencies.

    Tradeoff

    Using a published explanatory statement speeds up the process, but excluding two major agencies from its guidance leaves their spending direction less clearly defined.

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    Language and amounts printed under the headings U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and in the Comparative Statement of New Budget Authority for such agencies shall have no force or effect for purposes of this Act.