Rep. Sykes Statement on DHS Funding Lapse

Rep. Sykes Statement on DHS Funding Lapse

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As a partial government shutdown takes effect, U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) is calling out congressional Republicans for triggering this crisis by refusing to hold Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) accountable under President Donald Trump and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem:

"I do not support a blank check for ICE," said Rep. Sykes.

"Congress has a responsibility to fund the government. We also have a responsibility to ensure that federal agencies operate within the law and respect constitutional rights. The current DHS funding proposal fails to include basic, common-sense reforms: requiring judicial warrants, mandating body cameras, prohibiting excessive force, and ensuring transparency in enforcement operations. These are reasonable guardrails that protect both public safety and civil liberties.

"Instead of working toward responsible reform, President Trump and congressional Republicans are choosing to protect the status quo and trigger a shutdown.

"Meanwhile, families in Ohio and across the country are still waiting for the lower costs they were promised on 'day one.' Groceries aren't cheaper. Housing isn't cheaper. Child care isn't cheaper. This political brinkmanship does nothing to lower prices or help working families get ahead.

"I am ready to support a DHS funding package that includes real accountability and real solutions. What I will not support is legislation that ignores constitutional safeguards and fails to deliver for the American people."

Rep. Sykes is urging immediate consideration of her bipartisan Pay Our Military Act to ensure members of the U.S. Coast Guard continue receiving their pay during the shutdown.

Rep. Sykes is urging Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republicans to negotiate in good faith, advance meaningful ICE reforms, and move a responsible funding bill that ends the shutdown.

More information about which federal services and programs are impacted by the shutdown is available on Rep. Sykes' shutdown FAQ page at sykes.house.gov.