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DHS funding lapse becomes longest partial U.S. shutdown

politicsMar 29, 2026802

The DHS funding lapse hit 44 days on Sunday, the longest partial U.S. government shutdown on record. The lapse began in mid-February and affects Department of Homeland Security operations while the rest of the federal government remains funded. TSA workers were briefly paid again, but airports still face staffing shortages, rising jet fuel costs, and ongoing passenger disruptions. The lapse matters because it disrupts air travel, border operations, and core homeland security functions.

Key Highlights

DHS funding gap reached 44 days, longest partial shutdown in U.S. history.
TSA workers briefly received back pay amid ongoing airport staffing shortages.
The rest of the federal government remains funded, making this a partial shutdown.