Today, the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee convened to review its Fiscal Year 2026 bill, which was subsequently approved by the Subcommittee. The proposed legislation outlines a budget of $66.3 billion, marking an increase of $1.3 billion from the previous fiscal year. It also allocates $26.5 billion for major disaster response and recovery activities.
Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei (R-NV) stated, "The bill before us today provides $66.3 billion, an increase of $1.3 billion above Fiscal Year 2025, and $26.5 billion for major disaster response and recovery activities." He emphasized the changes in border security since President Trump took office, describing it as a significant turnaround from what he termed "policy-driven chaos under Biden."
Amodei detailed funding allocations including support for 22,000 Border Patrol Agents with recruitment and retention bonuses, $346 million for border security technology, and resources for 50,000 detention beds to aid ICE in detaining and deporting criminal and removable aliens.
He further noted enhancements to the Coast Guard's capacity through investments in unmanned aircraft and maritime systems: "$100 million for long range unmanned aircraft; $40 million for unmanned maritime systems; and $20 to establish the Technology Optimization and Modernization Fund."
Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) also delivered remarks supporting the measure's focus on national safety: "Keeping Americans safe and secure is a fundamental duty, and the measure we are considering this evening supports that mission." He highlighted ongoing threats at borders and cyber challenges posed by foreign adversaries.
Cole praised DHS personnel: "Our defense against these threats starts with the brave men and women of DHS who stand on the front lines." He credited new leadership under the Trump Administration with empowering these individuals to fulfill their duties effectively.
Both chairmen underscored that protecting America remains a non-negotiable priority under current administration policies.
