H.R. 8206 · 119th Congress · Referred to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Homeland Security Funding Bill, Border Rules, and New Voter ID Rules
Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026
8 cosponsors
- Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5] (R-AZ)
- Rep. Boebert, Lauren [R-CO-4] (R-CO)
- Rep. Burlison, Eric [R-MO-7] (R-MO)
- Rep. Donalds, Byron [R-FL-19] (R-FL)
- Rep. Fulcher, Russ [R-ID-1] (R-ID)
- Rep. Harris, Mark [R-NC-8] (R-NC)
- Rep. Higgins, Clay [R-LA-3] (R-LA)
- Rep. Miller, Mary E. [R-IL-15] (R-IL)
Deep dive September 10, 2026
This bill funds the Department of Homeland Security for 2026. It also gives short-term funding to other government programs. It adds new rules for reports, spending limits, and oversight. It also has a separate part called the SAVE America Act. That part requires proof of citizenship and photo ID to vote in federal elections.
What to know
- The bill funds Homeland Security for 2026.
- But it sets ICE and Border Security funding to $0 in the funding table. This removes detailed spending rules for those programs.
- It adds many new rules for reports and notices. DHS, Coast Guard, Secret Service, and FEMA must tell Congress before big spending or staff changes.
- It gives $20 million for body cameras on immigration agents. It gives $98 million for Coast Guard drones. It gives $2 million for a Secret Service digital forensics center.
- The SAVE America Act is a separate part of the bill. It requires proof of citizenship to register to vote. It requires photo ID to vote in federal elections.
- It blocks funding for a national ID card. It blocks moving Guantanamo detainee Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to the U.S. It sets new limits on restraining pregnant women in custody.
- It extends current government funding until this law is signed. This covers a funding gap that began around February 14, 2026. It also guarantees federal workers get paid during funding lapses.
Heads up
6 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.
Zero funding for border security operations (Section 4 and Section 549)
Why we flagged this
This is a homeland security funding bill. But it sets border security money to zero. It also blocks any transfer of funds to border security operations. The stated purpose is to fund homeland security. This part cuts a major security function to nothing.
Show the exact bill text
amounts specified in the “Final Bill” column under the sub-heading “Border Security Operations” under the heading “U.S. Customs and Border Protection” and under the heading “U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement” in the “Department of Homeland Security Act, 2026” table shall all be $0.
Federal data sharing to verify voter citizenship within 24 hours (Section 3002(f))
Why we flagged this
This rule sits inside a large spending bill. It orders any federal agency to hand over citizenship data fast. The deadline is 24 hours after a state asks. It also allows batched, bulk data requests. This creates a wide new data-sharing system across the government.
Show the exact bill text
any head of a Federal department or agency possessing information relevant to determining the eligibility of an individual to vote in elections for Federal office shall, not later than 24 hours after receipt of such request, provide the official with such information as may be necessary to enable the official to verify that an applicant for voter registration in elections for Federal office held in the State or a registrant on the official list of eligible voters in elections for Federal office held in the State is a citizen of the United States, which shall include providing the official with such batched information as may be requested by the official.
Documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote (Section 3002(f))
Why we flagged this
This rule bars states from registering voters without citizenship papers. Some citizens do not have these documents. This raises questions under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. It may also raise questions under the Twenty-Fourth Amendment on voting barriers. Courts would decide any conflict.
Show the exact bill text
a State may not register an individual to vote in elections for Federal office held in the State unless, at the time the individual applies to register to vote, the individual provides documentary proof of United States citizenship.
Photo ID required to cast a ballot (Section 3003(a))
Why we flagged this
This rule blocks a ballot unless a voter shows a photo ID. Some eligible citizens lack such an ID. This raises questions under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. It may also raise questions under the Twenty-Fourth Amendment. Courts would decide any conflict.
Show the exact bill text
the appropriate State or local election official may not provide a ballot for an election for Federal office to an individual who desires to vote in person unless the individual presents to the official a valid physical photo identification.
Major voting law changes placed inside an appropriations bill (Division C, Section 3001)
Why we flagged this
The bill's title is about homeland security funding. But Division C changes national voting laws. It adds new rules for voter registration and voting. This is a large policy change, not a spending measure. It is easy to miss inside a funding bill.
Show the exact bill text
This Act may be cited as the “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act” or the “SAVE America Act”.
Sole grounds limit on Social Security citizenship data (Section 3002(f))
Why we flagged this
This rule lets states use Social Security data to remove voters. It says such data alone cannot be the only reason for removal. But other listed sources have no such limit. A small wording choice shapes how people can be dropped from voter rolls.
Show the exact bill text
any such information provided by the Commissioner may not be the sole grounds for the removal of an individual from the official list of eligible voters for elections for Federal office in a State.
Section by section
Naming the Act
This section gives the bill its official name. It will be called the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026. This name lets people refer to the law easily. It does not set any policy or spend any money by itself.
This applies to everyone who reads, cites, or refers to this law, including lawmakers, agencies, and the public.
There is no real tradeoff here, since naming a bill does not create any new benefit or cost.
Show the exact bill text
This Act may be cited as the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 .
Table of contents for the funding bill
This section lists the parts of the bill. It has no funding rules by itself. It shows that the bill has three main divisions. Division A funds the Department of Homeland Security for 2026. Division B gives more short-term funding to keep other government programs running. Division C is called the SAVE America Act. The section also lists smaller titles inside Division A. These cover things like management, security, disaster response, research, and general rules.
This section itself does not directly affect anyone. It helps readers find specific funding and policy sections later in the bill.
Listing the bill's structure adds no new spending or rules, but it also gives no detail on what each part actually funds or requires.
Show the exact bill text
2. Table of contents Sec. 1. Short title. Sec. 2. Table of contents. Sec. 3. References. Sec. 4. Explanatory statement. Sec. 5. Statement of appropriations.
How the word 'Act' is used in this law
This section explains a rule about words. This law has several parts, called divisions. If one division uses the word 'this Act,' that phrase only means that one division. It does not mean the whole law. This rule applies unless a part of the law clearly says otherwise. This helps courts and agencies read the law the right way.
This mostly affects courts, lawyers, and government agencies who read and apply this law. Ordinary citizens are not directly affected.
This rule makes each division easier to read on its own, but it can make the whole law feel more complicated to follow.
Show the exact bill text
Except as expressly provided otherwise, any reference to this Act contained in any division of this Act shall be treated as referring only to the provisions of that division.
Explanatory statement and its effect on ICE and border security funding
This section says a written explanation from the House Appropriations Committee counts as official guidance for the bill. That guidance normally explains how to spend the money. But this section blocks part of it. It cancels the guidance for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It also cancels the guidance for Border Security Operations under Customs and Border Protection. It then sets the funding amounts for those two areas to $0 in the bill's funding table.
This affects ICE and Customs and Border Protection border security operations. It also affects agencies and staff who rely on committee guidance to plan spending.
Setting these amounts to $0 removes detailed spending instructions for these programs, which can simplify the law but also cut off clear direction and funding for immigration and border enforcement work.
Show the exact bill text
the contents printed under the headings U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Security Operations under the heading U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall have no force or effect for purposes of this Act, and amounts specified in the Final Bill column under the sub-heading Border Security Operations under the heading U.S. Customs and Border Protection and under the heading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Department of Homeland Security Act, 2026 table shall all be $0.
Where the money comes from
This section is a short legal statement. It says the money in this law comes from the U.S. Treasury. It uses funds not already promised to something else. The money covers the budget year ending September 30, 2026. This sentence sets up the spending listed later in the bill.
It affects the federal government's budget process. It sets the stage for agencies that will receive funding in later sections.
This section does not weigh costs or benefits. It only states the legal basis for the spending that follows.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Reporting on non-competitive grants and contracts
This section makes the Department of Homeland Security track its grants and contracts. By October 15, 2026, the Secretary must list every grant or contract given without full competition in 2025 or 2026. This list goes to the department's Inspector General. The Inspector General then checks if the department followed the law and rules. The Inspector General must send the results to Congress by February 15, 2027.
It affects the Department of Homeland Security, its Inspector General, and Congress. It also affects companies and groups that get government grants or contracts without open bidding.
This adds oversight and paperwork, which can catch misuse of funds but also takes staff time away from other work.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Monthly spending and staffing reports for Homeland Security
This section makes the Department of Homeland Security report its spending each month. The department's top money officer must send a report within 30 days after each month ends. The report must show how much money the department spent that month and for the year. It must break costs down by program and project. It must also show staffing levels. The first report sets a starting point. That starting point becomes the baseline for future staffing changes.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security and Congress. Lawmakers on the Appropriations Committees will receive these reports.
This gives Congress more oversight of spending and staffing, but it adds paperwork and reporting work for the department.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Notice required before moving forfeiture funds to DHS
This section deals with money in the Treasury Forfeiture Fund. This fund holds cash and property taken in law enforcement cases. The Department of Homeland Security sometimes gets money moved to it from this fund. Under this section, the Secretary of Homeland Security must tell Congress before that money moves. The Secretary must work with the Treasury Secretary to send this notice. Congress must get the notice first. No agency can spend the transferred money until Congress is told about it.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, the Treasury Department, and Congress's appropriations committees. It also indirectly affects how quickly DHS agencies can use forfeiture funds.
Congress gets more oversight of these fund transfers, but DHS agencies may have to wait longer before they can use the money.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Paying for Secretary's travel on government planes
This section deals with air travel costs. It covers trips by the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. When they use government aircraft for official work, the cost must come from one place. That place is the Office of the Secretary's budget. This stops travel costs from being spread across other agency budgets.
It affects the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. It also affects how the Department of Homeland Security tracks its budget.
This makes travel spending easier to track in one budget line, but it does not limit how much can be spent on such travel.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Reporting on Homeland Security equipment purchases
This section makes the Department of Homeland Security tell Congress about its big equipment and technology purchases. Every three months, the department must brief House and Senate spending committees. The briefing covers major purchase programs, called Level 1 and Level 2 acquisition programs. For each program, officials must explain its purpose and what it will buy. They must also share cost estimates, timelines, and risks. They must list contractors working on the program. If costs or schedules have grown beyond original plans, they must explain why. The department must also send Congress a copy of any approved purchase decision within five business days.
This affects Department of Homeland Security leaders, Congress, and companies that sell equipment or services to the department.
This gives Congress more oversight of costly programs, but it adds paperwork and reporting work for department staff.
Show the exact bill text
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, including programs that have been removed from such list during the preceding quarter.
Rules for new DHS pilot programs
This section sets rules for new pilot or test programs at the Department of Homeland Security. Before spending money on a new pilot, the agency must write down clear goals and how it will measure success. It must explain how it will collect and study data. It must also give cost estimates and a timeline with an end date. A top DHS official must send this plan to Congress before money is spent. After a pilot ends, DHS must report what it learned, what it actually cost, and whether it will continue or grow. A pilot only counts under this rule if it uses more than 10 full-time workers or costs $5,000,000 or more. It does not cover programs already running, tech-purchase testing, or projects run by outside groups getting DHS grants.
This affects DHS agencies and offices that want to start new pilot or test programs. It also affects Congress, which gets more reports and oversight of these programs.
This adds planning and reporting steps that increase oversight and accountability, but may slow down how fast DHS can start new pilot programs.
Show the exact bill text
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).
Limits on Homeland Security intelligence activities
This section stops the Office of Intelligence and Analysis, a part of the Department of Homeland Security, from using this bill's money for a certain type of activity. That activity is defined in an earlier law from 2025. The section does not stop other officials from doing oversight. Oversight means checking the office's work for legal, privacy, or civil rights problems. The section also does not stop the office from sharing intelligence information. It can still share or receive information with state, local, tribal, and foreign governments. It can also share with private businesses and other federal agencies.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Intelligence and Analysis. It also affects state, local, and foreign governments and businesses that share intelligence with this office.
The section blocks funding for one specific intelligence activity, but it makes sure the office can still share information and undergo oversight checks.
Show the exact bill text
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
Watchdog reports on Homeland Security spending
This section tells the Department's Inspector General to watch how money is spent. The Inspector General is an independent watchdog inside the Department. Every three months, the watchdog must report to Congress on spending under a related law, Public Law 119-21. The report must show spending plans for each program. It must also compare money spent so far to what was planned. It must summarize any audits of contracts and purchases. Starting one year after this law passes, the watchdog must also send Congress a yearly deep-dive report. That report will cover audits and reviews of the funded programs. It must include ideas to stop waste, fraud, and abuse.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General office, Department managers, and members of Congress who oversee spending.
This adds regular oversight and transparency, but it also creates extra reporting work for the Inspector General and Department staff.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Body cameras for immigration enforcement agents
This section gives $20 million to the Office of the Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security. The money will buy and run body-worn cameras. These cameras go to agents and officers who enforce immigration law. Within 30 days of this law starting, the Secretary must send Congress a spending plan. This plan explains how the money will be used.
This affects immigration enforcement agents and officers, and people who interact with them during enforcement actions. It also affects the Department of Homeland Security's budget process.
Body cameras can increase accountability and evidence during enforcement, but the $20 million cost could instead fund other agency needs.
Show the exact bill text
$20,000,000, for the procurement, deployment, and operations of body-worn cameras for agents and officers performing enforcement activities under 8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.
Overtime pay limits for Homeland Security staff
This section reuses an old rule about overtime pay. That rule was first written in 2018 for the Department of Homeland Security. It set limits on how much overtime pay workers could earn. This section says the same rule now applies to money from this new law. The only change is the year. It now says 2026 instead of 2018.
Department of Homeland Security employees who work overtime, and agency budget managers.
The rule controls overtime spending, but it may cap extra pay for workers who put in long hours.
Show the exact bill text
Section 201 of the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2018 (division F of Public Law 115–141 ), related to overtime compensation limitations, shall apply with respect to funds made available in this Act in the same manner as such section applied to funds made available in that Act, except that fiscal year 2026 shall be substituted for fiscal year 2018 .
Fees for travelers arriving from Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands
This section deals with fees paid by people arriving in the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or a nearby island. These fees are collected under an existing customs law. The section says this fee money can stay available for use until it is fully spent. It does not set a deadline for spending it.
Travelers arriving from Canada, Mexico, or nearby islands, and the federal agencies that use these fees for border and customs work.
Letting the money stay available longer gives agencies more flexibility to plan spending, but it also means the funds are not tied to a strict yearly budget deadline.
Show the exact bill text
fees collected from passengers arriving from Canada, Mexico, or an adjacent island pursuant to section 13031(a)(5) of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 ( 19 U.S.C. 58c(a)(5) ) shall be available until expended.
Rules for waiving U.S. ship laws on oil reserve shipments
This section limits waivers for shipping crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Normally, oil from this reserve must move on U.S. flagged ships. This section says the government cannot waive that rule unless the Secretary of Homeland Security first works to make sure U.S. ships are used. The Secretary must talk with the Energy and Transportation Departments and the U.S. maritime industry first. If anyone asks for a waiver, the Secretary must tell Congress within two business days. This includes telling them what happened with each request.
It affects the Department of Homeland Security, oil companies moving reserve oil, and the U.S. shipping industry. Congress also gets more oversight of these decisions.
This protects jobs for U.S. ship crews and companies, but it could slow down or limit options for moving oil quickly during emergencies.
Show the exact bill text
none of the funds provided in this or any other Act shall be used to approve a waiver of the navigation and vessel-inspection laws pursuant to section 501(b) of title 46, United States Code, for the transportation of crude oil distributed from and to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve until the Secretary of Homeland Security, after consultation with the Secretaries of the Departments of Energy and Transportation and representatives from the United States flag maritime industry, takes adequate measures to ensure the use of United States flag vessels.
Ban on new border crossing fees
This section stops the Secretary of Homeland Security from creating a new fee to cross the border. This applies to the Southern border and the Northern border. It covers land ports of entry only. It would cover walkers, bike riders, drivers, and passengers in cars. The Secretary also cannot study whether to add such a fee. This rule starts as soon as the law is signed.
People who cross the U.S. Southern or Northern border on foot, by bike, or by car. It also affects the Department of Homeland Security's future plans and budget options.
This protects border crossers from new fees, but it also blocks the government from raising money that way or even studying the idea.
Show the exact bill text
the Secretary of Homeland Security shall not— (1) establish, collect, or otherwise impose any new border crossing fee on individuals crossing the Southern border or the Northern border at a land port of entry; or (2) conduct any study relating to the imposition of a border crossing fee.
Spending plan required before border agency builds anything
This section applies to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It covers money used for buildings, construction, and property upgrades. The agency's leader must send a spending plan to Congress. This plan must go to the House and Senate spending committees. The agency has 90 days after the law passes to send it. The agency cannot spend any of this construction money until it sends the plan.
This affects U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Congressional committees that oversee its budget.
This gives Congress more oversight of how the agency spends construction money, but it may slow down building projects until the plan is approved.
Show the exact bill text
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall submit an expenditure plan for any amounts made available for U.S. Customs and Border Protection—Procurement, Construction, and Improvements in this Act and prior Acts to the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Protecting border screening operations
This section deals with the National Targeting Center, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection office that screens people and cargo entering the country. It lets this year's funds be used to change how that center runs. But it also blocks agencies from cutting planned screening, called vetting, at any current location. Agencies can only cut this screening if a new law passed after this Act allows it. This rule applies to money from this Act, leftover money from past years, and fees the agencies collect.
It affects U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the National Targeting Center. It also affects travelers, cargo shipments, and goods that go through border screening.
The rule protects current screening levels from budget cuts, but it limits agency flexibility to shift resources even if officials think a change would work better.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds provided by this Act, provided by previous appropriations Acts that remain available for obligation or expenditure in fiscal year 2026, or provided from any accounts in the Treasury of the United States derived by the collection of fees available to the components funded by this Act, may be used to reduce anticipated or planned vetting operations at existing locations unless specifically authorized by a statute enacted after the date of enactment of this Act.
Border surveillance systems must be autonomous
This section limits how Customs and Border Protection can spend money on border security equipment. The agency gets funds for border security assets and infrastructure under a program called Procurement, Construction, and Improvements. This section says none of that money, from this law or earlier laws, can pay for surveillance systems that are not autonomous. Autonomous means the system meets a definition set in another law, Public Law 119-21.
This affects U.S. Customs and Border Protection and companies that sell border surveillance equipment.
This pushes the agency toward newer autonomous technology, but it blocks funding for non-autonomous systems that may still work well or cost less.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds made available for Border Security Assets and Infrastructure under the heading U.S. Customs and Border Protection—Procurement, Construction, and Improvements in this Act or prior appropriations Acts shall be used for the procurement or deployment of surveillance systems that are not autonomous, as such term is defined in section 90004 of Public Law 119–21 .
Care rules for pregnant women in border custody
This section deals with how U.S. Customs and Border Protection treats pregnant women in its custody. It requires the agency to follow a 2021 policy statement about care for pregnant, postpartum, and nursing people, and their infants. If that exact policy is replaced, the agency must use similar rules. Those rules must be made with input from doctors who specialize in pregnancy and child health. The goal is to protect the health, safety, and rights of pregnant women held by border agents.
Pregnant, postpartum, and nursing women and their infants held in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody. It also affects Border Patrol staff who must follow these care standards.
This section sets clear health protections for a vulnerable group, but it adds rules and requirements that border agents and facilities must follow.
Show the exact bill text
The Secretary shall ensure that the November 30, 2021, policy statement from U.S. Customs and Border Protection titled Policy Statement and Required Actions Regarding Pregnant, Postpartum, Nursing Individuals, and Infants in Custody, or substantively similar standards of treatment developed in consultation with maternal and pediatric health providers and experts, are in effect and are fully implemented to safeguard the health, safety, and rights of pregnant women in U.S. Customs and Border Protection custody.
No skipping airport security for top officials
This section says top government leaders must go through airport security screening. This includes members of Congress and their leaders. It also includes heads of federal agencies. Department of Homeland Security leaders are named too. So are the Attorney General and top Justice Department officials. White House budget office leaders are included as well. None of these officials can skip passenger or baggage screening. The section also blocks money from being used to change this rule. That means no funds, from this law or any other, can pay for future changes to these screening rules.
Members of Congress, top federal agency heads, Homeland Security leaders, top Justice Department officials, and senior White House budget staff.
This ensures equal security screening for powerful officials, but it also locks in the rule by blocking funding for any future changes, even ones that might improve or update screening policy.
Show the exact bill text
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; the United States Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General, Assistant Attorneys General, and the United States Attorneys; and senior members of the Executive Office of the President, including the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, shall not be exempt from Federal passenger and baggage screening.
Using airport security funds for bomb-detection machines
This section deals with a special fund called the Aviation Security Capital Fund. Normally there are rules on how this money can be spent. For fiscal year 2026, this section sets those rules aside. It lets the fund pay for buying and setting up explosives detection systems at airports. It also lets the money be used for special contracts, called other transaction agreements, to fund related security projects.
This affects airports, the Transportation Security Administration, and companies that make or install airport security equipment.
It gives officials more flexibility to fund bomb-detection equipment quickly, but it does this by bypassing the usual spending rules for one year.
Show the exact bill text
for fiscal year 2026, 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 for the purpose of funding projects described in section 44923(a) of such title.
TSA equipment planning reports
This section tells the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to send Congress one combined report. It must come within 45 days after the President's budget plan is released. The report must include a spending plan for buying and replacing airport security equipment. It must also include a 5-year plan for new screening technology. Finally, it must include a report on advanced passenger screening technology. TSA must combine these three items into a single document instead of separate ones.
This affects TSA leaders, Congress, and airport security programs. It may also affect travelers over time, since it shapes future screening equipment.
Combining reports may save time and paperwork, but it could also make it harder to track each topic separately.
Show the exact bill text
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
Changing a report requirement to a briefing
This section changes an old aviation security law. The law used to require a written report. Now it will require a briefing instead. It also changes the word 'transmit' to 'provide' for how officials share this information with Congress. The subject of the report or briefing itself does not change. Only the format and the wording change.
This affects a federal agency that must update Congress under this old law, likely the Transportation Security Administration or a related aviation security office.
A briefing can be faster and more flexible than a written report, but it may leave less of a permanent public record.
Show the exact bill text
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 .
Coast Guard boat registration fees
This section deals with the Coast Guard's job of registering boats. It says the Coast Guard cannot spend regular funds to document recreational vessels, like yachts. Instead, owners of these boats must pay fees for that service. Those fees will cover the cost. If the fees are not enough and applications pile up, staff who normally handle other boat paperwork can help finish recreational boat registrations.
Recreational boat and yacht owners who need Coast Guard documentation, and Coast Guard staff who process boat registrations.
Yacht owners pay their own registration costs instead of taxpayers, but if fees fall short, staff from other boat programs may be pulled away to clear the backlog.
Show the exact bill text
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 under the heading Coast Guard—Operations and Support
Coast Guard must submit a future spending plan
This section tells the Coast Guard's top officer, the Commandant, to send Congress a long-term spending plan. The plan covers future building projects, ships, and upgrades. It must follow rules set in an older 2015 spending law. Lawmakers use this plan to see what the Coast Guard wants to buy in coming years.
This affects the Coast Guard and the House and Senate committees that control government spending.
The plan gives Congress more information for oversight, but it also adds a reporting task for the Coast Guard.
Show the exact bill text
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
Protecting Coast Guard tech center staff
This section stops money in this bill from being used to cut a Coast Guard tech unit. That unit is called the Operations Systems Center. The rule also protects staff numbers there. This includes both government workers and contract workers. Agencies cannot use this bill's funds to shrink the center's mission or cut its workforce.
It affects the Coast Guard, its Operations Systems Center, and the government and contract staff who work there.
It protects jobs and services at this center, but it limits the Coast Guard's freedom to shift money or staff to other needs.
Show the exact bill text
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.
No outsourcing study for Coast Guard vessel documentation office
This section blocks the use of funds for a special kind of review called an A-76 competition. That review compares costs of government workers versus private contractors. It cannot be done for the Coast Guard's National Vessel Documentation Center. The funds also cannot be used to act on any results from such a review. This keeps the office running as it is now, without a push to test private outsourcing.
It affects Coast Guard staff at the National Vessel Documentation Center and any private companies that might want to bid for that work.
It protects current government jobs at this office, but it blocks a review that might find cheaper ways to run it.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Coast Guard civil engineering operations
This section lets the Coast Guard use funds from this Act to change how its Civil Engineering Program works. This includes engineering units, design and construction centers, maintenance and logistics commands, and the Coast Guard Academy. But there is a limit. The Coast Guard cannot shrink any civil engineering unit's operations. That can only happen if a new law passed after this Act allows it.
This affects the Coast Guard and its civil engineering staff. It also affects facilities like the Coast Guard Academy and logistics commands.
The Coast Guard gets flexibility to reorganize its engineering operations, but Congress keeps control over any cuts to civil engineering units.
Show the exact bill text
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
Coast Guard housing money stays available
This section talks about money in the Coast Guard Housing Fund. Any money placed in this fund during 2026 can be used until it runs out. There is no deadline to spend it in one year. This money must go toward Coast Guard housing programs. It comes on top of other money already given for the same purpose.
Coast Guard members and their families who use Coast Guard housing. Also affects Coast Guard budget planners.
Letting the money carry over gives more flexibility for housing projects, but it also means the funds may sit unused for longer before helping anyone.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Coast Guard drone aircraft funding
This section gives the Coast Guard $98 million in new money. The Coast Guard must use it to buy MQ-9 drone aircraft. This money also covers ground stations, equipment, and program management for these drones. The Coast Guard can spend this money until September 30, 2030. The section also sets a rule for the whole Department of Homeland Security. No money from this bill or any earlier bill can be used to buy long-range drones with weapons. It also blocks adding weapons to any long-range drone.
This affects the U.S. Coast Guard and its drone aircraft programs. It also affects the wider Department of Homeland Security, which cannot arm long-range drones.
The funding lets the Coast Guard improve surveillance with new drones, but the weapons ban limits how those and other agency drones can be used in the future.
Show the exact bill text
for the procurement and acquisition of MQ–9 aircraft and associated base stations, equipment related to such aircraft and associated base stations, and program management for such aircraft and base stations
Coast Guard must brief Congress before spending on Force Design 2028
This section blocks the Coast Guard from using money in this Act for a plan called Force Design 2028. The Coast Guard cannot spend on it yet. First, it must give detailed briefings to House and Senate spending committees. These briefings must cover four things. They are organization, people, technology, and contracts. Once the briefings happen, the Coast Guard can move forward.
This affects the U.S. Coast Guard and its leaders. It also affects Congress members who review Coast Guard spending.
Congress gets more oversight and information before money is spent, but the Coast Guard may face delays in starting its planned changes.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Secret Service training center payments
This section lets the Secret Service spend money before it gets paid back. Other federal agencies send staff to train at the James J. Rowley Training Center. Those agencies later pay the Secret Service back for that training. This rule lets the Secret Service spend the money first and get reimbursed later. But there is a limit. The Secret Service cannot spend more than its total budget for operations and support by the end of the year.
It affects the U.S. Secret Service and other federal agencies that send employees for training. It also affects how the Secret Service manages its yearly budget.
This gives the Secret Service more flexibility to run training programs smoothly, but it also lets the agency spend money it has not yet received, which could create budget risk if reimbursements are delayed.
Show the exact bill text
The United States Secret Service is authorized to obligate funds in anticipation of reimbursements from executive agencies, as defined in section 105 of title 5, United States Code, for personnel receiving training sponsored by the James J. Rowley Training Center, 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.
Limits on Secret Service protection for agency heads
This section limits how the Secret Service can spend its money. It says Secret Service funds cannot be used to protect the head of a federal agency, except for the Secretary of Homeland Security. The Secretary of Homeland Security can still get Secret Service protection. Other agency heads cannot use these funds for protection. But the Secret Service can still protect other agency heads if that agency pays back the full cost.
This affects heads of federal agencies (other than the Secretary of Homeland Security) and the United States Secret Service.
This saves Secret Service funds for other duties, but agency heads who need protection must arrange and pay for it themselves.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Secret Service budget flexibility
This section lets the Secret Service move money around inside its own budget. It applies to a part of the law about reprogramming funds. The Secret Service can shift up to $15,000,000 within its Operations and Support account. This means it can move that money between different activities, but not add new money overall.
This affects the U.S. Secret Service and how it manages its funding for daily operations.
It gives the agency more flexibility to respond to changing needs, but it also reduces strict oversight of how each dollar was originally planned to be spent.
Show the exact bill text
For purposes of section 503(a)(3) of this Act, up to $15,000,000 may be reprogrammed within United States Secret Service—Operations and Support .
Secret Service travel spending flexibility
This section gives the Secret Service more freedom to spend money on travel for protective missions. Normally, spending limits apply to travel costs. This section lets the Secret Service skip those limits for protection trips. The Director must first tell Congress about the plan. This notice must come 10 days before spending, or as soon as possible if there is less time.
This affects the U.S. Secret Service and the people it protects, such as the President and other officials. It also affects Congress, which oversees this spending.
The Secret Service gets faster, more flexible funding for protection travel, but Congress gets less advance control over how that money is spent.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Funding for computer forensics training facility
This section sets aside $2 million for the Secret Service. The money will go to the National Computer Forensics Institute. This is an existing facility, not a new one. The Secret Service uses it to train people in digital forensics. This work is part of the agency's normal duties under federal law. The money can be used until it runs out. There is no deadline tied to a specific year.
This affects the Secret Service and the National Computer Forensics Institute. It may also affect police officers, prosecutors, and judges who get trained there in digital evidence skills.
The funding supports training on cybercrime and digital evidence, but it directs a fixed amount to one existing facility instead of other possible uses.
Show the exact bill text
$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.
Secret Service overtime pay and staffing reports
This section deals with overtime pay limits for Secret Service employees. It changes a pay cap rule so it also applies for the year 2024. The change is treated as if it started on December 31, 2023. The section also requires yearly reports through 2028. These reports must explain how the Secret Service is handling heavy protection workloads. Each report must look at current staffing and workloads. It must also suggest ways to cut overtime, like hiring more staff or spreading out work better. The reports must also share data on how many overtime hours employees work, including workers who hit the pay cap and are not fully paid for extra hours. Finally, it raises a funding limit from $24 million to $40 million for Secret Service operations and support, and updates the year referenced from 2023 to 2024.
Secret Service employees, especially those working protective duties, and the congressional committees that oversee homeland security and spending.
Raising the overtime pay cap and funding limit helps cover higher workloads, but it also increases federal spending and requires more oversight paperwork.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Personal drug imports from Canada
This section limits how Customs and Border Protection can spend its money. The agency cannot use funds to stop everyday people from bringing prescription drugs from Canada into the U.S. This only applies to people who are not in the business of importing drugs. It only covers drugs that meet U.S. safety rules. The person must carry the drugs with them. The amount is capped at a 90-day supply. The rule does not cover controlled substances, like opioids. It also does not cover biological products, like certain vaccines or gene therapies.
Individual travelers who bring personal prescription drugs from Canada, and Customs and Border Protection officers who enforce import rules.
This makes it easier for individuals to get lower-cost drugs from Canada, but it limits how strictly border officers can control what medicine enters the country.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds made available in this Act for U.S. Customs and Border Protection may be used to prevent an individual not in the business of importing a prescription drug (within the meaning of section 801(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) from importing a prescription drug from Canada that complies with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
Extra customs funding for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
This section lets Customs and Border Protection use certain funds for customs work in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The money can come from two CBP funding accounts. One account pays for daily operations. The other pays for buildings and equipment. This extra money is on top of funds already required by other laws. The goal is to keep customs operations running. It also aims to stop staff from losing jobs or facing other bad personnel actions.
This affects Customs and Border Protection staff and operations in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
It gives CBP more flexibility to protect jobs and operations in these territories, but it may reduce funds available for other CBP priorities.
Show the exact bill text
shall be available for customs expenses when necessary to maintain operations and prevent adverse personnel actions in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, in addition to funding provided by sections 740 and 1406i of title 48, United States Code.
Extra money for Customs and Border Protection
This section gives U.S. Customs and Border Protection $31 million more for its operations. This money stays available until it is spent. The government will reduce this amount by any fees it collects under certain existing laws. These fees come from immigration processing, agriculture inspections, and trade enforcement programs. If the collected fees end up being more than $31 million, the extra money still goes to this same agency. That extra money also stays available until spent.
This affects U.S. Customs and Border Protection and its budget for operations. It may also affect travelers, importers, and farm goods shippers who pay related fees.
The agency gets guaranteed extra funding, but the final amount depends on how much fee money comes in, which can make the true cost to taxpayers hard to predict.
Show the exact bill text
For an additional amount for U.S. Customs and Border Protection—Operations and Support , $31,000,000, to remain available until expended, to be reduced by amounts collected and credited to this appropriation in fiscal year 2026
Cybersecurity threat feed funding
This section lets the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency use its operations money to buy or provide cyber threat feeds. These feeds warn about hacking dangers. The money can help federal agencies get this information. It can also help state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. Fusion centers and information sharing groups can get access too. Fusion centers are hubs that share safety information between agencies.
Federal agencies, state and local governments, fusion centers, and information sharing groups that need cyber threat data.
This spending can improve early warning against cyberattacks, but it uses agency funds that could otherwise support other security needs.
Show the exact bill text
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
Limit on grant administration costs
This section limits how much of certain FEMA grant money can go to paperwork and administration. Groups that get these grants can use no more than 5 percent of the money for administrative costs. This rule applies even if another law says otherwise. It covers five specific types of grants listed under FEMA's federal assistance programs. It also applies to states that manage one of these grants, called paragraph (3) grants.
State and local governments and other groups that receive FEMA grants covered by this rule.
Capping administrative spending at 5 percent could mean more grant money reaches actual projects, but it may also leave grant recipients with less funding to manage paperwork and oversee the grants properly.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Deadlines for FEMA grant applications
This section sets time limits for certain FEMA grant programs. FEMA must open applications within 60 days after this law passes. Groups that want a grant must apply within 80 days after FEMA announces the grant. FEMA must then decide on each application within 65 days after receiving it. If FEMA misses the 60-day deadline to open applications, its operations budget loses $100,000 for each late day. That same amount would then be cut from FEMA's Mission Support funding.
FEMA staff who manage grants, and local governments, states, or groups that apply for FEMA emergency grants.
The deadlines push FEMA to act faster, but the funding cuts for missed deadlines could reduce money for FEMA's own operations if delays happen.
Show the exact bill text
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 as required in subsection (a)
Advance notice before FEMA grant announcements
This section tells the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to warn Congress before it announces certain grants to the public. FEMA must brief the House and Senate Appropriations Committees five full business days before telling the public about these grant awards. This rule covers several types of FEMA assistance grants. If FEMA breaks this rule and announces early, the bill takes away $1,000,000 from FEMA's operations budget. That same amount would also be cut from FEMA's Mission Support funding.
This mainly affects FEMA staff and leaders who manage grant announcements. It also affects Congress members who oversee FEMA spending, and indirectly, groups waiting to hear about grant awards.
This gives Congress more advance notice and oversight of FEMA grants, but it also creates a financial penalty that could delay help reaching communities if timing rules are not followed.
Show the exact bill text
the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall brief the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate five full business days in advance of announcing publicly the intention of making an award
Communications towers not counted as buildings
This section is about certain FEMA grants. It says building a communications tower does not count as building a building or other structure. This matters for rules that apply to grants. Some grant rules are stricter for building construction. By not counting towers as buildings, this section may let tower projects skip those stricter rules.
It affects groups that get FEMA assistance grants and want to build communications towers.
This may speed up tower projects, but it could also mean fewer safety or environmental checks that apply to regular building construction.
Show the exact bill text
the installation of communications towers is not considered construction of a building or other physical facility
Disaster relief fund reporting updates
This section updates old reporting rules for FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund. These rules were first written in 2015. The section changes them so they apply to fiscal year 2026 and fiscal year 2027. It also tweaks the timing language, adding the word 'business' before 'fifth' in one reporting rule. This likely means a report is due within five business days, instead of five regular days. The overall goal is to keep FEMA's disaster spending reports current and useful for this budget cycle.
FEMA and Congress, since this changes how and when FEMA must report on disaster relief spending.
Updating old reporting deadlines keeps oversight current, but it also shows how much routine bill language depends on citing and adjusting older laws, which can be hard for the public to track.
Show the exact bill text
in paragraph (1) by substituting fiscal year 2027 for fiscal year 2016 ; and (2) in paragraph (2) by inserting business after fifth .
Waivers for firefighter staffing grants
This section lets the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, skip some normal rules when it gives out Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grants. These grants help fire departments hire and keep staff. Normally, a law sets strict rules on who can get this money and how it must be used. This section lets FEMA waive some of those rules. That means fire departments may qualify for grants even if they do not meet every usual requirement.
Local fire departments applying for federal staffing grants, and FEMA officials who manage the grant program.
Waiving these rules can help more fire departments get funding, but it also means fewer fixed standards decide who receives taxpayer money.
Show the exact bill text
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
Fees for nuclear emergency planning
This section deals with a federal program that helps communities prepare for nuclear power plant emergencies. It says the government must collect enough fees in 2026 to fully cover the program's costs for the next year. These fees usually come from utility companies that run nuclear plants. The section also says fee amounts must be fair and must match the real cost of running the program. Money collected goes into a special account. That money can be used starting October 1, 2026, and does not expire.
This mainly affects companies that operate nuclear power plants, and the Department of Homeland Security office that manages emergency planning near those plants.
Full cost recovery keeps taxpayers from covering the program's costs, but it raises fees on nuclear plant operators, which may affect their expenses.
Show the exact bill text
The aggregate charges assessed during fiscal year 2026, as authorized in title III of the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999 ( 42 U.S.C. 5196e ), 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.
Waiving a rule for firefighter grant money
This section lets a FEMA leader skip one rule when giving out Assistance to Firefighter Grants. These grants help fire departments buy equipment and gear. The rule being waived is part of an older fire safety law. The section does not remove the grant program. It only lets FEMA bypass this one specific requirement when handing out the money.
It affects FEMA, the agency giving out the grants. It also affects fire departments and firefighters who receive this grant money.
Waiving the rule may let FEMA give out grants faster or more flexibly, but it also removes a legal safeguard that was built into the process.
Show the exact bill text
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 ( 15 U.S.C. 2229 ).
Moving old disaster prevention money to a new fund
This section deals with leftover money from an old disaster prevention program. Congress once had a fund called the National Predisaster Mitigation Fund. That fund helped pay for projects to reduce damage from future disasters, like floods or storms. The law changed how this fund works. This section says any unspent money from the old version of the fund must move into the newer version of the fund. The money is not lost. It just gets combined into the current program's setup.
It affects federal disaster agencies (like FEMA) and state or local governments that apply for predisaster mitigation grants.
This keeps unused disaster prevention money in the system for future projects, but it does not add any new funding beyond what already existed.
Show the exact bill text
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 ( 42 U.S.C. 5133 )
Moving leftover flood map funds to FEMA's mapping program
This section deals with old, unused money set aside for flood hazard mapping. It moves any leftover funds from a past flood mapping program into a different FEMA account for the same purpose. That account is called Federal Assistance for Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis. This transferred money adds to funds already available. It does not replace money from the National Flood Insurance Fund. States and local governments can still add their own money to help pay for mapping projects. The combined funds can be used until they run out, with no yearly deadline.
FEMA's flood mapping program, and state and local governments that help pay for flood maps.
This keeps unused funds working for flood mapping instead of expiring, but it reduces oversight tied to the original spending purpose.
Show the exact bill text
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
Longer time limits for FEMA grant spending
This section sets a time limit for certain FEMA grant programs. Groups that get money from these grants can now use it for three to five years. The rule applies to most FEMA Federal Assistance grants listed in the bill. It does not apply to every single grant type, since one category is left out. This gives grant recipients more time to plan and finish their projects.
State and local governments, tribes, and other groups that receive FEMA grant funding.
Longer time limits give recipients more flexibility to complete projects, but they may also slow down how fast the money gets used and reported on.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Public disaster aid tracking dashboard
This section tells the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to build an online dashboard for the public. The dashboard must show requests for money to help with disasters. It will list this money by state. It will separate help for individuals from help for public projects. FEMA must post new requests within 90 days after it gets them. It must post updates within 60 days after final review by the Department of Homeland Security. The dashboard must include at least seven specific types of information listed in another part of the law.
This affects FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, state governments, and people who apply for disaster aid. It also affects the public, who can now track this spending online.
The dashboard gives the public more transparency about disaster aid spending, but it adds new reporting work and deadlines for FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security.
Show the exact bill text
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 ( 42 U.S.C. 5122(1) ) or major disaster ( 42 U.S.C. 5122(2) ) declarations under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act ( 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. )
Limits on pausing FEMA training and grants
This section limits how the government can pause FEMA training or grant programs. FEMA runs training and gives out grants under a program called Federal Assistance. The government cannot use this law's money to pause those programs. There is one exception. The Secretary of Homeland Security can pause a program if they tell Congress at least 10 business days before doing so. The notice must explain why the pause is happening. It must also explain plans to make up missed classes. It must include how much money the pause will affect. In an emergency that threatens lives or property, the Secretary can skip the 10 day notice.
This affects FEMA staff, emergency responders who get FEMA training, and groups that receive FEMA grants. It also affects Congress, which must be notified before most pauses.
This keeps training and grants running smoothly and forces advance warning of pauses, but it can slow down fast decisions unless the Secretary declares an emergency.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Vehicles for immigration agency staff
This section lets U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services buy or lease up to 5 vehicles. These vehicles can only replace old ones, not add new ones. They are only for areas where the General Services Administration cannot provide leased vehicles. The agency can also operate, maintain, and get rid of these vehicles. The director of the agency can let certain employees drive these vehicles between home and work.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services staff who work in areas without standard government vehicle leasing options.
It gives the agency more flexibility to keep staff mobile in hard-to-reach areas, but it also allows limited personal use of government vehicles for commuting.
Show the exact bill text
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
No outsourcing study for certain immigration workers
This section blocks the use of funds to run a special competition process. That process is called an OMB Circular A-76 review. It compares if private companies could do a job cheaper than government workers. This section stops that review for certain jobs at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Those jobs include Immigration Information Officers, Immigration Service Analysts, Contact Representatives, Investigative Assistants, and Immigration Services Officers. This applies to temporary and term workers too. In short, these jobs cannot be tested for private outsourcing under this law.
This affects workers at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in these specific job roles. It also affects the agency's ability to explore private contracting for these jobs.
It protects these federal jobs from a cost comparison study, but it also blocks any chance to test if outsourcing could save money or work better.
Show the exact bill text
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 of the Department of Homeland Security who are known as Immigration Information Officers, Immigration Service Analysts, Contact Representatives, Investigative Assistants, or Immigration Services Officers.
Remote oversight of fingerprint and photo collection
This section lets U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) use its funds for a new way of collecting biometrics. Biometrics include fingerprints and photos. Normally, staff watch this process in person at an Application Support Center. This section allows staff to oversee the process from a distance instead. They would use video or other technology to watch remotely. The agency can pay for this setup with its regular funding.
People applying for immigration benefits who must give fingerprints or photos, and USCIS staff who process these applications.
Remote oversight could make appointments faster or more available, but it may reduce direct in-person supervision during the process.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Funding for police training accreditation
This section lets the Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers give money to federal law enforcement agencies. The money covers costs agencies pay when they join training accreditation programs. Accreditation means outside reviewers check that training meets set standards. This section only allows the money transfer. It does not set a specific dollar amount.
This affects federal law enforcement agencies and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers. It does not directly affect the general public.
This can help agencies keep consistent, checked training standards, but it also means public money goes to accreditation costs instead of other needs.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Federal law enforcement training accreditation
This section names a board to run the accreditation process for federal law enforcement training. The board includes people from federal law enforcement and outside training experts. It will keep checking the quality of training programs. It will also check training facilities and instructors. The goal is to make sure federal law enforcement training meets set standards.
This affects federal law enforcement agencies, their training programs, and the trainers and facilities they use.
This section adds oversight to improve training quality, but it also adds another layer of review for agencies to follow.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Funding transfers for law enforcement training facilities
This section lets the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers take money from other government agencies. Agencies can send funds when they want a special training facility built. The money goes into a specific construction account. Once the building is done, the Training Centers keep control of it. The Training Centers own the facility, even though another agency paid for part of it.
This affects the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers and other federal agencies that need special training facilities.
Agencies get custom training facilities built faster, but they give up ownership and control of those buildings once finished.
Show the exact bill text
The Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers may accept transfers to its Procurement, Construction, and Improvements account from Government agencies requesting the construction of special use facilities, as authorized by the Economy Act ( 31 U.S.C. 1535(b) ).
Federal law enforcement instructors classed as government work
This section covers the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers. This agency trains federal law enforcement officers. The section says instructor jobs there are "inherently governmental." This is a legal label. It means the government must do this work itself. It cannot hire outside companies to do it instead. The label comes from an older law called the Federal Activities Inventory Reform Act.
It affects instructors at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers. It also affects private companies that might want to provide training staff.
Keeping instructors as government employees may ensure more direct oversight, but it removes the option to use cheaper or more flexible private contractors.
Show the exact bill text
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).
Money must be used within the same year
This section sets a time limit on spending. It says agencies must use the money in this Act during the current budget year. Agencies cannot save the money and spend it later. The only exception is if the Act clearly says otherwise for a specific program.
It affects federal agencies that receive funding through this Act. It also affects programs that rely on that funding to operate.
This rule stops agencies from stockpiling unused funds, but it may force rushed or less planned spending near the end of the year.
Show the exact bill text
No part of any appropriation contained in this Act shall remain available for obligation beyond the current fiscal year unless expressly so provided herein.
Moving old unspent money into new accounts
This section lets agencies take leftover money from past budget years and move it into new accounts set up by this same law. Once moved, the old money and new money can be combined into one fund. The combined fund still follows the original time limit set when the money was first approved. This helps agencies keep using funds without starting from zero.
Federal agencies covered by this act, and programs funded through those agencies.
It lets agencies use leftover funds more smoothly, but it can make it harder for the public to track exactly where and when money was spent.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Rules for moving money around at Homeland Security
This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security can shift money between programs. It cannot start new programs, cut programs Congress protected, or use federal workers to replace contractors without telling Congress first. Big funding changes, above $5 million or 10 percent, need advance notice. The department can move up to 5 percent of its budget between accounts, but must warn Congress 30 days ahead. After June 15, these fund shifts get harder to make, unless there is a real emergency. The Secretary can also move up to $20 million into a specific immigration fund, but must give Congress 5 days notice first.
This affects Department of Homeland Security managers, Congress, and programs funded by the department, including grant recipients.
This gives the department some flexibility to adjust its budget, but requires it to keep Congress informed and limits sudden or large changes.
Show the exact bill text
Up to 5 percent of any appropriation made available for the current fiscal year for the Department of Homeland Security by this Act or provided by previous appropriations Acts may be transferred between such appropriations if the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate are notified at least 30 days in advance of such transfer, but no such appropriation, except as otherwise specifically provided, shall be increased by more than 10 percent by such transfer.
Reusing an old rule for a shared money fund
This section deals with a Department of Homeland Security "working capital fund." That is a shared pool of money used by different DHS offices. The section says a rule from a 2017 spending law still applies to this fund now. It lets the fund spend or commit money before it gets paid back by DHS offices that use it. In simple terms, the fund can spend now and collect reimbursement later.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security and its internal offices that use shared services paid through this fund.
This lets DHS keep shared services running smoothly, but it means money can go out before it is actually paid back.
Show the exact bill text
Funds from such working capital fund may be obligated and expended in anticipation of reimbursements from components of the Department of Homeland Security.
Extra time to spend leftover operations money
This section lets agencies keep some unused money past its normal deadline. Normally, yearly funding must be spent by the end of the fiscal year. This section allows up to 50 percent of leftover funds from 2026 operations budgets to stay available through September 30, 2027. Agencies must track this leftover money and report it by June 15, 2027. Before spending it, agencies must first notify Congress. This gives agencies more flexibility to finish planned work without losing the money.
Federal agencies with operations and support budgets, and the congressional appropriations committees that oversee their spending.
Agencies get more flexibility and less waste from expiring funds, but Congress gives up some control over strict yearly spending limits.
Show the exact bill text
not to exceed 50 percent of unobligated balances remaining available at the end of fiscal year 2026, as recorded in the financial records at the time of a reprogramming notification, but not later than June 15, 2027, from appropriations for Operations and Support for fiscal year 2026 in this Act shall remain available through September 30, 2027, in the account and for the purposes for which the appropriations were provided.
Temporary approval for intelligence spending
This section lets the government treat money in this act for intelligence work as officially approved by Congress. This covers fiscal year 2026. It applies until Congress passes a separate law that formally authorizes intelligence activities for that year. If the intelligence office gets more money than that future law allows, the extra money moves to a different office called Management Directorate. Before spending that extra money, an official must first brief House and Senate spending committees on how it will be used.
This affects federal intelligence agencies, the Department of Homeland Security's Management Directorate, and congressional oversight committees.
It lets intelligence work continue without delay, but it shifts some spending decisions away from a full authorization law and toward committee briefings instead.
Show the exact bill text
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 ( 50 U.S.C. 414 ) during fiscal year 2026 until the enactment of an Act authorizing intelligence activities for fiscal year 2026.
Advance notice for big Homeland Security spending
This section tells the Department of Homeland Security to warn Congress before spending large amounts of money. The Secretary must notify House and Senate spending committees at least three business days before making big grants, contracts, or task orders. This applies to grants over $1 million, disaster relief grants over $100,000, contracts over $2 million, and multi-year task orders over $5 million. It also covers sole-source grants, which are grants given without competition. If waiting three days would risk people's lives, health, or safety, the Department can act first and tell Congress within three days after. Each notice must list the amount, the year the money was approved, the contract type, and where the money comes from.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, Congress, and companies or groups that receive large federal grants or contracts.
Congress gets more oversight and warning about big spending, but the Department may have less freedom to act quickly in normal situations.
Show the exact bill text
shall notify the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate at least three full business days in advance of
New law enforcement training facilities need advance notice
This section limits how federal agencies get new law enforcement training facilities. Agencies cannot buy, build, or lease new training sites unless they are near existing locations. If an agency wants a new site elsewhere, it must first tell Congress. It must notify the House and Senate spending committees before acting. There is one exception. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers can rent extra space for a short time. This only applies when current facilities cannot fit the training needed.
Federal agencies that run law enforcement training programs, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers specifically.
This gives Congress more oversight of new training facility spending, but it may slow down agencies that need new space quickly.
Show the exact bill text
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 of the House of Representatives and the Senate
Approval needed before big federal building projects
This section limits how the government can spend money from this act. It cannot pay for large construction, repair, or property projects unless a special plan called a prospectus is approved first. A prospectus is a formal proposal that explains a project and its cost. The law that requires this approval already exists. This section just makes sure no funds break that rule. It does allow one exception. Agencies can still spend money to prepare and write the prospectus itself.
This affects federal agencies that manage buildings and property, like the General Services Administration. It also affects contractors and communities waiting on federal construction or repair projects.
This keeps big projects from starting without formal review, but it can slow down repairs or construction that people are waiting for.
Show the exact bill text
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, except that necessary funds may be expended for each project for required expenses for the development of a proposed prospectus.
Reusing old spending rules for new funds
This section links two old rules to this bill's money. Those rules first appeared in a 2008 homeland security spending law. Section 522 and Section 530 of that law will now apply to funds in this act. They will work the same way they did back in 2008. The section does not spell out what those rules say. It just says they carry over to this new funding.
It affects the Department of Homeland Security and how it manages the new money in this bill.
This keeps past spending rules consistent, but readers cannot tell what those rules require without checking the 2008 law.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Buy American rule for this bill's money
This section says agencies must follow the Buy American Act. This law asks the government to buy American-made goods. Agencies cannot use money from this Act in ways that break that law. The section also explains where to find the Buy American Act in the U.S. legal code.
Federal agencies spending money from this Act, and companies that sell goods to the government.
This rule can support American manufacturers, but it may limit choices or raise costs if foreign goods are cheaper or easier to get.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds made available in this Act may be used in contravention of the applicable provisions of the Buy American Act.
No changes to the citizenship oath
This section blocks the use of money in this Act to change the oath of allegiance. This is the oath people say when they become U.S. citizens. The oath comes from a specific immigration law. Federal agencies could not use these funds to rewrite or update its wording.
This affects federal agencies that manage naturalization, and people who plan to become U.S. citizens.
This keeps the citizenship oath the same, but it also stops any updates to the oath, even ones that might be widely supported, as long as this funding rule applies.
Show the exact bill text
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 ).
Limits on reorganizing the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office
This section limits a power the Homeland Security Secretary normally has. That power lets the Secretary reorganize offices inside the Department of Homeland Security. This section says the Secretary cannot use that power unless Congress approves it first. There are two exceptions. The Secretary can still move duties around inside the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. This must match a specific plan listed in an official explanatory document. The Secretary can also move money between accounts to support that same plan.
This mainly affects the Department of Homeland Security and its Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. It also affects how much control Congress keeps over agency reorganization.
This gives Congress more control over how the department reorganizes itself, but it limits the Secretary's flexibility to quickly shift duties or staff without asking lawmakers first.
Show the exact bill text
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.
No funding for a national ID card
This section blocks the use of any money in this law for a national identification card. Agencies cannot use these funds to plan the card. They cannot use the money to test it. They cannot use it to pilot the card or build it. This means work on a national ID card cannot move forward using funds from this act.
This affects federal agencies that might otherwise study or build a national ID system. It also affects citizens, since no national ID card can be developed with this money.
Blocking this funding stops possible progress on a national ID system, but it also means the government cannot explore whether such a card could improve security or simplify identification.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds made available in this Act may be used for planning, testing, piloting, or developing a national identification card.
Officials cannot pass off reporting duties
This section sets a rule for officials named in this law. Some officials must report or certify things to Congress. This law names two committees. They are the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. An official who must do this cannot give the job to someone else. They must do it themselves. The only exception is if the law clearly allows them to hand it off.
Federal officials required to report or certify information to Congress under this act.
This keeps accountability with the specific named official, but it removes flexibility if that person is busy or unavailable.
Show the exact bill text
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.
No first-class travel using this money
This section says agencies covered by this bill cannot use its funds to pay for first-class travel. Agencies must follow existing federal rules about first-class travel. These rules are in a section of federal regulations called title 41. This part of the bill does not create new rules. It just makes sure agencies still follow the old ones.
It affects federal employees at agencies funded by this Act, especially those who travel for work.
This limits comfort and cost options for traveling staff, but it helps keep travel spending in check.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Ban on hiring unauthorized workers with this money
This section blocks the use of funds from this Act to hire certain workers. It points to a specific law, section 274A(h)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. That law defines workers who are not authorized to work in the United States. Agencies cannot use money from this Act to employ these workers.
Federal agencies and contractors funded by this Act, and workers who lack legal work authorization under this specific law.
This rule keeps federal money from hiring unauthorized workers, but it does not add new enforcement money or process for checking work status.
Show the exact bill text
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) ).
No bonus pay for poor contractor work
This section stops agencies from using this bill's money to pay bonus fees to contractors. It applies when a contractor's work was rated below satisfactory. It also applies if the work failed to meet the basic contract terms. Agencies can still pay contractors for normal work. They just cannot give extra award or incentive money for bad performance.
This affects federal agencies covered by this Act and companies or people who hold government contracts with them.
This rule can save money and push contractors to do better work, but it may also cause disputes over how performance is judged and rated.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Blocking pornography on government computer networks
This section says agencies cannot use this law's funds to run computer networks unless those networks block pornography. This means blocking viewing, downloading, and sharing of it. There is an exception. Police and other law enforcement can still use funds for investigations, prosecutions, or court cases. This lets them handle evidence or cases that involve such material.
Federal agencies that use money from this Act to run computer networks. Law enforcement agencies doing criminal investigations or court cases are exempt from the block.
The rule aims to limit access to pornography on government systems, but it could also make normal law enforcement or investigative work harder without the built-in exception.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Limit on letting guns reach cartel agents
This section sets a rule for federal law enforcement officers. It stops them from using funds in this Act to hand over a working firearm to someone they know or suspect works for a drug cartel. There is one exception. Officers can still do this if U.S. law enforcement keeps constant watch or control over the gun. This rule appears to respond to past incidents where guns given to suspected criminals were lost track of.
Federal law enforcement officers and agencies that run gun-related investigations or operations involving suspected cartel members.
The rule aims to prevent guns from ending up in cartel hands untracked, but it could limit certain investigative tactics unless agencies keep close monitoring in place.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Limits on staff travel to overseas conferences
This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security spends money on big overseas conferences. It stops the department from sending more than 50 staff from one division to a single international conference. This rule applies if those staff normally work inside the United States. The Secretary can allow more staff to go if it serves the national interest. If so, the Secretary must tell Congress within 10 days and explain why. Any single conference cannot cost the department more than $500,000 in total. Staff who join a conference online, without leaving their home duty station, do not count toward the 50-person limit.
Department of Homeland Security employees and managers who plan or attend international conferences. Congress also gets more oversight of these trips.
The rule can save money and limit large travel budgets, but it may also make it harder to send enough staff to important overseas meetings.
Show the exact bill text
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
No reimbursement for special security events
This section blocks a specific use of money in this law. Federal agencies sometimes help with National Special Security Events. These are big events, like major political conventions or large public gatherings, that need extra security. Agencies often get paid back for their costs at these events. This section says money from this law cannot be used for that repayment.
This affects federal agencies that provide security at major national events, and the government bodies that would normally repay them.
It limits how this law's money can be spent, but it may leave agencies without a funding source to cover security costs at these major events.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Notice required before big DHS pay or job changes
This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security can change worker pay systems or job classifications. If a change would affect more than 100 full-time jobs, or cost more than $5,000,000 in a year, the Department must wait. It must first tell Congress about the change. This notice must explain how many jobs are affected. It must show the cost for this year and future years. It must give reasons for the change. If the change involves pay structure, the notice must also list other pay options the Department considered. The Department must then wait 30 days before making the change. This rule does not apply if the change was already listed in the President's budget request, and Congress did not block or limit its funding.
Department of Homeland Security employees and managers, and Congress, which gets more oversight of large pay or job changes.
This gives Congress more oversight and time to review big changes, but it can slow down the Department's ability to update pay systems quickly.
Show the exact bill text
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
Posting agency reports online
This section talks about reports agencies must send to Congress. Agencies get money from this law. If an agency head decides it helps the public, the agency must post these reports on its website. But agencies do not have to post a report if it would hurt national security. They also do not have to post it if it has private business information. Before posting, the agency must first give the report to Congress. Congress must have it for at least 45 days. If an agency does not follow these rules, it loses a special power. That power lets it move money between programs. The power stays off until the agency follows the posting rules.
Federal agencies that get funding from this law, and the congressional appropriations committees that oversee them.
The public gets more access to government reports, but agencies can withhold reports for security or business privacy reasons, which limits full transparency.
Show the exact bill text
Any agency receiving funds made available in this Act shall, subject to subsections (b) and (c), post on the public website of that agency any report required to be submitted by the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate in this Act, upon the determination by the head of the agency that it shall serve the national interest.
Small purchases allowed under operations funds
This section lets agencies use their operations and support money for small buying needs. They can buy or build things without needing separate approval. The rule sets limits on what counts as small. Personal items must cost $250,000 or less. Buildings or other real property must cost $4,000,000 or less. Anything above these limits does not count as minor and needs different funding rules.
Federal agencies covered by this Act, and their staff who manage budgets, procurement, and construction projects.
This gives agencies more flexibility to make small purchases quickly, but it also lets them spend operations money on construction without extra oversight.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Schooling help for staff dependents overseas
This section keeps an older rule in place for one more year. That rule lets the Department of Homeland Security pay for primary and secondary schooling for dependents of certain staff. The rule first appeared in a 2018 law. This section just extends it through fiscal year 2026. It does not create a new program. It simply continues an existing benefit.
It affects Department of Homeland Security employees with school-age dependents, especially those stationed in places without normal school access.
It keeps a helpful benefit for staff families, but it also keeps that ongoing cost on the government's books for another year.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Limits on restraining pregnant women in custody
This section limits how the Department of Homeland Security can restrain pregnant women in its custody. It stops the use of restraints on women who are pregnant or recovering after delivery. There are some exceptions. Officials can use restraints if a woman is a serious flight risk or a serious danger to herself or others. A medical professional can also allow restraints if needed for the woman's health. Even then, only the safest and least restrictive restraints can be used. Restraints can never be used during active labor or delivery. Certain restraint types are always banned, like face-down four-point restraints or belts that squeeze the belly. If restraints are used, the woman should be placed on her left side as much as possible.
This affects pregnant women held by the Department of Homeland Security, including in detention centers, during transport, or at outside hospitals. It also affects the officers and medical staff who handle their care.
The rule protects pregnant women from harmful restraint methods, but it gives officials some judgment calls to still use restraints if they decide there is a safety or flight risk.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Keeping records on deaths and abuse in immigration detention
This section stops the Department of Homeland Security from destroying certain records. It covers records about deaths in detention. It also covers records about sexual assault or abuse claims. It also covers records about allegations of abuse, crimes, or disruptions by people held in custody. The department must keep these records. It must also give copies to people who were charged with a crime or punished because of an allegation. This applies if the person asks for the records. The records must be shared following existing laws and court rules.
It affects people held in Department of Homeland Security custody, especially immigration detainees. It also affects the department's record-keeping staff and legal processes.
This section protects detainees' access to records that may help them, but it adds recordkeeping and disclosure duties for the department.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Ban on funding a 'Principal Federal Official' position
This section reuses an old budget rule from 2016. That rule stopped federal money from paying for a job called 'Principal Federal Official.' This section says the same rule now applies to any federal funds, not just the funds from the old 2016 law. In effect, no federal money can be used to pay for this specific job title, no matter which budget it comes from.
This affects federal agencies and officials involved in disaster response or emergency coordination roles.
It blocks funding for a specific coordination role across all federal money, which may limit that role's use even if it could help organize emergency response.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Yearly report on unfunded Homeland Security needs
This section makes the Department of Homeland Security report each year on projects it wanted but could not pay for. The Under Secretary for Management must send this report to Congress within 10 days after the President's budget comes out. The report must list each unfunded priority. It must explain what the project would do. It must list the account and program name for each project. It must also say how many new jobs the project would create. An unfunded priority is something needed for an operation or backup plan. It is something that did not make it into the budget, but would have if more money were available.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security and its leaders. It also affects Congress members who write budget laws.
Congress gets more detail on what the Department could not afford, but the Department must spend time and staff writing extra reports every year.
Show the exact bill text
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, for which discretionary funding would be classified as budget function 050.
Notifying Congress about protection for former officials
This section deals with security protection for former or retired government officials. If the President decides to give this protection, the Secretary of Homeland Security must tell Congress within 10 days. The notice must go to leadership and several committees. It can be classified if needed. It must explain the threat, how much protection is planned, and its cost and length. Before ending or extending someone's protection, the Secretary must also tell Congress. Ending needs 30 days notice. Extending needs 15 days notice. Every three months, the Secretary must send a report listing each protected person and the cost of their protection.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, the President, former or retired federal officials receiving protection, and members of Congress who oversee spending and security matters.
This gives Congress more oversight of protection decisions and costs, but it also adds paperwork and reporting duties for the Department of Homeland Security.
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, or for an individual who, during the duration of the directed protection, will become a former or retired Government official or employee (referred to in this section as a covered individual ), 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
Notice rules for Homeland Security tech funding requests
This section controls how the Department of Homeland Security asks for money from the Technology Modernization Fund. That fund helps agencies pay for computer and technology upgrades. Before the Department asks the fund for a project, it must tell Congress first. It must send Congress a copy of the project plan. It must also explain if the new money would replace or add to money it already asked for in its budget. Once the fund approves money for the Department, the Department must wait 15 days after sending Congress a report before it can spend the money. That report must include the full project plan, the agreement on repayment, and a plan for how the Department will pay the fund back.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security and its agencies, and the two congressional Appropriations Committees that oversee federal spending.
This gives Congress more oversight and time to review tech funding requests, but it may slow down how fast the Department can get money for technology projects.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds provided to the Department of Homeland Security in this or any prior Act may be used by an agency to submit an initial project proposal to the Technology Modernization Fund
Backup plans for unproven fee revenue
This section deals with future budget plans for the Department of Homeland Security. Sometimes the department's budget counts on new user fees to bring in money. But Congress has not always passed laws to allow those fees. This section says if the department's 2027 budget assumes fee money that is not yet law, the Secretary must act fast. Within 60 days, the Secretary must tell Congress exactly where spending would be cut. This backup plan is needed in case the fees never become law before October 1, 2026.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, its budget planners, and Congress. It also indirectly affects programs that could lose funding if fee revenue does not come through.
This forces the department to plan ahead for missing revenue, but it also creates extra paperwork and uncertainty about which programs might face cuts.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Blocking funds for the Arms Trade Treaty
This section stops federal agencies from using money in this Act to carry out the Arms Trade Treaty. The Arms Trade Treaty is an international deal about the sale and transfer of weapons. Agencies cannot spend funds on it unless the Senate first votes to approve, or ratify, the treaty. This means the treaty stays on hold for funding purposes until the Senate acts.
This affects federal agencies that would carry out treaty duties, and it affects U.S. involvement in international arms trade rules.
The rule keeps the Senate in control of treaty approval, but it also delays any U.S. action under the Arms Trade Treaty until that vote happens.
Show the exact bill text
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.
Ban on Homeland Security deals with certain listed companies
This section stops the Department of Homeland Security from spending federal money on certain companies. These companies are named on a special list. The list comes from a defense law passed in 2021. The department cannot sign contracts with these firms. It also cannot give them grants, loans, or loan guarantees. This rule also covers any subsidiary owned by these companies.
It affects the Department of Homeland Security and companies listed under section 1260H of a 2021 defense law, often linked to Chinese military ties.
This rule can block security risks from certain companies, but it may also limit the department's choices for contractors, suppliers, or partners.
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.
Ban on moving Guantanamo detainees to the U.S.
This section blocks the use of government money for a specific purpose. Agencies cannot use funds from this or any other law to bring Khalid Sheikh Mohammed into the United States. The same rule applies to other detainees held at Guantanamo Bay since June 24, 2009. This applies only to people who are not U.S. citizens or members of the U.S. military. The rule covers moving them anywhere in the U.S., its territories, or possessions.
This affects Guantanamo Bay detainees, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies that handle detainee transfers.
The rule keeps these detainees out of the U.S., but it also limits options for closing the Guantanamo facility or moving detainees for trial or medical care in the U.S.
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.
Monthly border migrant estimates
This section tells the Secretary of Homeland Security to make monthly estimates of migrants expected at the southwest border. These estimates must cover the current year and the next year. They must break down numbers by type of migrant, such as single adults, families, and children traveling alone. Outside experts must check the estimates for accuracy. The Department must use these numbers to plan policy and budgets. The estimates must also appear in budget documents sent to Congress, including the President's yearly budget request and any request for extra funds. The Secretary must share these monthly estimates with other agencies, including Health and Human Services, the Justice Department, and the State Department. Congress must also get these estimates. If the Department does not provide the required estimates, it loses its power to shift money between programs until it does.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, related federal agencies, and Congress. It also indirectly affects border security and immigration planning.
This creates more accountability and planning data, but it adds paperwork and could freeze the Department's funding flexibility if reports are late.
Show the exact bill text
The Secretary of Homeland Security shall, on a monthly basis beginning immediately after the date of enactment of this Act, develop estimates of the number of migrants anticipated to arrive at the southwest border of the United States.
Monthly estimates of detention and removal numbers
This section makes the Secretary of Homeland Security build monthly estimates. These estimates predict how many people will be detained and removed from the country. The estimates must cover the current year and the next year. They must break down numbers by group, like single adults and families. An outside reviewer must check the estimates for accuracy. The department must use these numbers for planning and budgeting. The estimates also go into budget documents sent to Congress. This includes the President's yearly budget request. It also includes any request for extra funding. The department must share these estimates with the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, and Congress. If the department does not share the estimates, it loses a certain funding power. That power lets it move money between programs. It stays blocked until the estimates are shared.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, and Congress. It also affects how immigration enforcement programs get funded and planned.
This section forces more planning and transparency around immigration enforcement, but it adds paperwork and can freeze the department's ability to shift funds if it misses a deadline.
Show the exact bill text
The Secretary of Homeland Security shall, on a monthly basis beginning immediately after the date of enactment of this Act, develop estimates of the number of individuals anticipated to be detained in and removed from the United States.
Rules for asking the military to help with border security
This section sets rules for the Department of Homeland Security. It applies before that agency asks the Department of Defense for help at the border. First, the Secretary must study other options. This study must compare costs and benefits of using the military versus other choices. Second, within 30 days of making the request, the Secretary must send a report to Congress. This report must explain what kind of help was requested. It must also share the study results and how the help would affect normal operations. Third, once the military help is approved, the Secretary must send another report within 30 days. After that, the Secretary must send updates every three months. These reports must explain what help was given and how it affected border security work.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and Congress members on the Appropriations Committees. It also affects how border security missions are planned and reviewed.
This gives Congress more oversight and information about military help at the border, but it also adds paperwork and time before that help can be requested or used.
Show the exact bill text
Prior to the Secretary of Homeland Security requesting assistance from the Department of Defense for border security operations, the Secretary shall ensure that an alternatives analysis and cost-benefit analysis is conducted before such request is made, which shall include an examination of obtaining such support through other means.
Emergency back-up care for employees
This section allows certain government money to pay for a back-up care program. This program helps employees when their usual child care or elder care falls through. The money can come from this bill or other laws that fund operations and support. Agencies could use these funds to cover costs of running this care program.
Federal agency employees who use back-up care benefits, and agencies that manage operations and support funds.
The program can help workers stay on the job during care emergencies, but it uses funds that could otherwise go to other agency needs.
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.
Penalties for late disaster fund reports and slow reimbursements
This section pushes FEMA to report and pay disaster claims faster. FEMA must file a report on its Disaster Relief Fund each month. It must also post the report online by the fifth business day. If FEMA misses this deadline, its management budget loses $100,000 for each late day. The section also targets slow reimbursements. These are payments for disaster help after storms or other emergencies. If more than 500 requests sit in final review for over 60 days, FEMA again loses $100,000 per day. This penalty does not apply if the Disaster Relief Fund only has enough money for lifesaving work.
This affects FEMA's management budget and operations. It also affects people and communities waiting for disaster reimbursement payments.
The rule pushes FEMA to report and pay claims faster, but the money penalty could cut funds from FEMA's own management operations if it falls behind.
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.
Extending a COVID-era farm aid rule
This section changes a deadline in an old law. The old law was the CARES Act, passed in 2020 to help during the pandemic. One part of that law let the government use certain farm aid funds. This section says that part of the law now runs until September 30, 2026. It does this by rewriting the deadline text in the original law. It does not create new money or new rules. It only stretches the time limit on an existing farm aid power.
Farmers and ranchers who may get aid through this CARES Act program, and the government agency that manages the funds.
Extending the deadline lets aid keep flowing longer, but it also keeps an old emergency-era program active years after the pandemic ended.
Show the exact bill text
Section 16005(c) of title VI of division B of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act ( Public Law 116–136 ) shall be applied as if the language read as follows: Subsection (a) shall apply until September 30, 2026.
Classified program funding rules
This section deals with secret government programs. It says money amounts for classified programs in this law must match a hidden document. That document is called the classified annex. It is attached to the law but not public. The section also says these funds must follow another rule, section 545, listed elsewhere in the law.
This mainly affects government agencies running classified or secret programs, and officials who oversee their budgets.
Keeping details secret protects sensitive security work, but it limits public and outside oversight of how the 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.
Moving intelligence funds for urgent needs
This section lets the Director of National Intelligence move money around within intelligence programs. This can only happen if the move is needed for the national interest. The Secretary of Homeland Security and the budget office must both approve first. The money can only go to higher priority needs that come up unexpectedly. It cannot be used for anything Congress already said no to. Any request to move funds must follow other rules set out in a related section of the law.
This affects intelligence agencies and their budgets. It also affects oversight by Congress and federal budget officials.
This gives intelligence leaders flexibility to react to new threats quickly, but it also limits Congress's control over how the money gets spent.
Show the exact bill text
Upon a determination by the Director of National Intelligence that such action is necessary and in the national interest, 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)
Spending reports for Homeland Security funds
This section makes the Department of Homeland Security report on how it spends money. It must send a report within seven days after this law passes. It must send updates every three months after that. The reports must show spending plans by program or project. They must also show any fees the department expects to collect under a related law. The reports must state which fees the department keeps and which fees go to other agencies or the Treasury. The department must also show spending plans for any fees it keeps.
This affects the Department of Homeland Security and Congress, which oversees the department's budget and spending.
Regular reports help Congress track spending and fees, but they add paperwork and staff time for the department.
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
Congress can inspect immigration detention facilities
This section protects the right of Congress to check on detention facilities. It says Homeland Security money cannot be used to block a member of Congress from entering a facility that holds detained immigrants. Staff picked by a member can also enter, for oversight visits. The department cannot change how a facility looks or runs just to hide the truth during a visit. Members do not have to give notice before they show up. Staff members, though, can be asked to give 24 hours notice before their visit.
Affects Department of Homeland Security detention facilities, members of Congress, congressional staff, and detained immigrants held at these sites.
Members get surprise access to check conditions, but staff visits can be delayed by a required notice period, which may limit how quickly problems are caught.
Show the exact bill text
None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of Homeland Security by this Act may be used to prevent any of the following persons from entering, for the purpose of conducting oversight, any facility operated by or for the Department of Homeland Security used to detain or otherwise house aliens
Extra money for Supreme Court operations
This section gives the Supreme Court an extra $30 million. The money is on top of what it already gets. The Court can use this money until September 30, 2028. It must follow the same rules that apply to the Court's regular budget in a separate 2026 spending law. This funding covers salaries and daily expenses for running the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court of the United States and its staff. Taxpayers who fund federal spending.
The Court gets more funding to support its operations, but this adds to overall 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
Pay raise for air traffic controllers
This section gives the Federal Aviation Administration $140 million. The money must go toward a 3.8 percent pay raise for air traffic controllers. It also covers some supervisors and managers who direct air traffic. The raise only happens if the FAA Administrator sees real improvements first. Those improvements include better staff scheduling and smarter use of workers. The goal is to fix staff shortages and make flying safer. If approved, the raise starts in the first pay period after January 1, 2026. The money can be used until September 30, 2027.
Air traffic controllers and their supervisors or managers at the FAA. Air travelers may also be affected through changes in staffing and safety.
Controllers could get higher pay to address staffing shortages, but the raise depends entirely on the Administrator's judgment, not a guaranteed 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, as defined by section 2109(1)(A) of title 5, United States Code, and air traffic controller supervisors or managers who are not covered under such section, but who manage air traffic
Limit on moving money into border security operations
This section blocks a certain type of money transfer. It stops agencies from moving funds into a specific account. That account is called Border Security Operations at Customs and Border Protection. Normally, section 503(c) of this Act lets agencies shift money between accounts. This section says that rule cannot be used for this one account. The account is listed in a special table in the 2026 Homeland Security funding statement.
This affects U.S. Customs and Border Protection and how it manages its budget. It also affects other agencies that might have sent extra funds to border operations.
This keeps tighter control over how much money goes to border security operations, but it also limits flexibility if that account needs more funds later.
Show the exact bill text
Notwithstanding section 503(c) of this Act, no amounts may be transferred to U.S. Customs and Border Protection—Operations and Support for Border Security Operations in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026 table of the explanatory statement regarding this Act, as defined in section 4 (in the matter preceding division A of this consolidated Act).
Extending the government funding deadline
This section changes an earlier law called the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026. That law had a set end date for temporary government funding. This section replaces that end date with the date this new bill becomes law. In plain terms, it resets the clock for when the temporary funding runs out. It does not add new money or change how funds are spent. It just moves the deadline forward.
Federal agencies and programs relying on temporary funding. It also affects citizens who depend on federal services staying open.
Moving the deadline keeps the government funded a bit longer, but it delays a final decision on full-year spending.
Show the exact bill text
The Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 (division A of Public Law 119–37 ) is further amended by substituting the date of enactment of this Act for the date specified in section 106(3).
Covering the February 2026 funding gap
This section fixes a gap in government funding. There was a lapse in appropriations starting around February 14, 2026. This is when agencies had no approved money to spend. This section says the earlier Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 should count as covering that gap period too. In effect, it treats the funding law as if it had applied the whole time. This helps make sure agencies are seen as legally funded during that stretch, even though there was a lapse.
Federal agencies and workers affected by the funding lapse, and anyone who relies on federal services during that time.
This section smooths over a funding gap and reduces legal confusion, but it also means Congress is retroactively fixing a lapse instead of preventing one in the first place.
Show the exact bill text
the time covered by such Act shall be considered to include the period which began on or about February 14, 2026, during which there occurred a lapse in appropriations.
Paying federal workers during a lapse in funding
This section deals with money set aside for federal employee pay and benefits. It points to funds already approved in this law and two earlier laws. It says these funds can be used to pay workers even during a funding gap. This is allowed under a specific rule in federal law about emergency payments. The section makes clear these payments must happen, not just that they are allowed.
Federal employees across departments and agencies, and the agencies that pay them.
This guarantees federal workers get paid during funding gaps, but it locks in spending decisions that limit later budget flexibility.
Show the exact bill text
Amounts made available in division A of the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 (division A of Public Law 119–37 ), and Public Law 119–21 for personnel pay, allowances, and benefits in each department and agency shall be available for payments pursuant to subsection (c) of section 1341 of title 31, United States Code, and such payments shall be made.
Approval of past spending under earlier stopgap laws
This section confirms past government spending was legal. It covers money spent under two earlier laws. One is this same 2026 funding act. The other is an earlier stopgap law from 2025. That spending was meant to protect life and property. It also allowed agencies to shut down operations in an orderly way. This section says those actions are approved. They must still follow the rules of both laws.
Federal agencies and workers who spent money or kept operations running under earlier short-term funding laws.
This section gives legal certainty to past emergency spending, but it does so after the fact rather than through normal advance approval.
Show the exact bill text
All obligations incurred and in anticipation of the appropriations made and authority granted by division A of the Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 and the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 (division A of Public Law 119–37 ) for the purposes of maintaining the essential level of activity to protect life and property and bringing about orderly termination of Government function, and for purposes as otherwise authorized by law, are hereby ratified and approved if otherwise in accord with the provisions of such Acts.
Naming this part of the law
This section gives a short name to this part of the bill. It can be called the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. It can also be called the SAVE America Act. This naming does not create any rule by itself. It just sets the name people will use to talk about the later sections.
This does not directly affect any group. It affects how people refer to the law.
Naming a bill makes it easier to reference, but the name itself does not explain what the later rules actually do.
Show the exact bill text
This Act may be cited as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act or the SAVE America Act .
Proof of citizenship required to register to vote
This section changes federal voter registration law. It requires every voter to show proof of U.S. citizenship before registering for federal elections. Valid proof includes a REAL ID marked as citizen, a U.S. passport, military ID with birth records, or certain government photo IDs paired with a birth certificate or other citizenship papers. States must check these documents at motor vehicle offices, by mail registration, and at registration drives. States must also compare voter lists against a federal database called SAVE to find non-citizens. People flagged this way get notice and a chance to prove citizenship before removal. States must set up a backup process for people who lack standard documents, using sworn statements and other evidence. States must also handle cases where a person's name on their documents does not match their current name.
It affects everyone who registers to vote for federal elections, state election officials, motor vehicle agencies, and voter registration groups.
The rule aims to confirm that only citizens vote, but it adds paperwork steps that could delay or block registration for some eligible citizens who lack easy access to the required documents.
Show the exact bill text
Under any method of voter registration in a State, the State shall not accept and process an application to register to vote in an election for Federal office unless the applicant presents documentary proof of United States citizenship with the application.
Photo ID requirement for federal elections
This section makes voters show a photo ID before casting a ballot in federal elections. People voting in person must show ID or cast a provisional ballot instead. They then have three days to show ID or sign an affidavit about a religious objection to being photographed. People voting by mail or absentee must send a copy of their photo ID with their ballot. If they cannot get one, they can give the last four digits of their Social Security number with an affidavit. Military voters overseas and some voters with disabilities are exempt from this rule. States must also give people free access to copy machines or scanners at libraries, courts, and other government buildings. States must tell voters about the ID rule when they register, including during online registration.
All voters in federal elections, state and local election officials, and people who lack a driver's license, passport, or other approved photo ID.
The rule aims to confirm voter identity, but it may create extra steps or delays for voters who lack easy access to accepted forms of photo ID.
Show the exact bill text
the appropriate State or local election official may not provide a ballot for an election for Federal office to an individual who desires to vote in person unless the individual presents to the official a valid physical photo identification.
Citations
- Congress.gov bill text: link (retrieved 2026-09-10)
Public record
Below is the official voting record from Congress.gov. It is not our analysis.
Source: Congress.gov
This bill has no recorded roll-call vote yet. A roll-call vote records how each member voted by name.
Help keep this free. Support this work.
to get an email when it changes. Part of email alerts, $5 a month.