Coast Guard Responsibilities
The Coast Guard, which operates under DHS, will maintain essential missions such as search-and-rescue operations and maritime patrols. Some nonessential activities, including certain training functions, may be suspended.
Counterterrorism and Law Enforcement
Counterterrorism monitoring and intelligence-gathering efforts are expected to continue. Law enforcement officers directly involved in protecting life and property will remain on duty, while some administrative roles may be temporarily furloughed.
FEMA and Disaster Relief
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will continue responding to active disasters. Emergency deployments have historically proceeded during funding lapses.
However, officials have warned that a shutdown could disrupt FEMA’s ability to reimburse states for disaster-related expenses and support long-term recovery efforts. While most FEMA employees would continue working, administrative delays could affect certain services.
What Americans May Notice
If the shutdown is brief, most Americans may see little immediate impact. Essential security, emergency response and protective services will remain operational. However, a prolonged funding lapse could lead to administrative delays, operational strain and workforce disruptions.
Lawmakers now face increasing pressure to reach a funding agreement before disruptions deepen.
