Cruz proposes splitting ICE from Homeland Security funding bill to end airport chaos

The Hill
by Alexander Bolton
March 21, 2026
3 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

Sen. Cruz proposes separating ICE and CBP funding from broader Homeland Security bill to address airport disruptions.

How This Affects You

Airline passengers may experience reduced airport delays if the funding separation resolves current chaos at security checkpoints.

AI Summary

Sen. Ted Cruz is proposing to separate Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection funding from the broader Department of Homeland Security budget as a standalone legislative measure. The proposal appears designed to expedite passage of border enforcement funding while potentially breaking a legislative logjam over broader DHS appropriations. Airport security delays have become a focal point of political pressure, with CBP officers staffing both ports of entry and airport screening checkpoints. Cruz's split-funding approach would allow Republicans to advance border enforcement priorities independently rather than negotiate them as part of comprehensive homeland security legislation. The proposal reportedly has gained initial traction among Senate colleagues.

What's Being Done

Sen. Cruz is proposing the split to Senate colleagues, with the proposal gaining momentum among some legislators.

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