Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act of 2026

The Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act of 2026 would provide continued salary payments to certain Department of Homeland Security employees and U.S. Coast Guard personnel if the federal government shuts down due to lack of appropriations in fiscal years 2026 or 2027. Specifically, the bill would authorize pay for DHS law enforcement personnel, support staff handling payroll and administrative functions, and Coast Guard members and contractors. These payments would continue until either Congress passes regular appropriations legislation or January 1, 2027, whichever comes first.

If enacted, this bill would help ensure that homeland security and Coast Guard operations continue uninterrupted during budget disputes, preventing lapses in pay for workers responsible for border security, immigration enforcement, and maritime safety. Currently, the bill has been introduced in the House and referred to committee for consideration, but has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.