Yesterday, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of legislation to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in its entirety.

This is the fourth attempt by House Republicans to end the partial government shutdown affecting agencies including TSA, FEMA, Border Patrol, ICE, and the U.S. Coast Guard. 

"DHS employees keep our country safe and deserve to get paid for their critical work," Moolenaar said. "The measure passed by the Senate in the dead of night unfortunately leaves critical aspects of DHS national security operations unfunded. This is not a time for half-measures. DHS should be funded in its entirety."

The Department of Homeland Security has remained shut down since funding lapsed for the department on Feb. 14. Many DHS agencies are deemed essential, requiring its employees to work without pay for the duration of government shutdowns.

The legislation passed by the Senate at 2:30 a.m. Friday limits funding for the U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, leaving a reported 26% of DHS unfunded. House Republicans responded by passing legislation Friday evening to fund all of the department's crucial national security operations until May 22. It also provides Congress the opportunity to negotiate year-long appropriations. 

"If Congress needs more time to negotiate reforms for specific agencies, DHS employees should not be caught in the middle," Moolenaar said. "The House proposals to fully fund DHS are the only serious efforts to reopen the department, and it should be taken up by the Senate immediately."

Moolenaar represents the Michigan's 2nd congressional district, and includes all of Barry, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, Oceana, and Osceola Counties. It also includes portions of Eaton, Kent, Midland, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Wexford Counties. 

_{Release information courtesy of Congressman Moolenaar.}