Policy Update: 3/3/2026
Sasha@iaje.us
DHS Funding Fight and House Hearings
What’s happening:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently the only major part of the federal government not funded. Pressure is increasing as TSA paychecks are threatened and airport delays may worsen. Kristi Noem is testifying in House DHS-related hearings, with coordination among House Judiciary members and Pramila Jayapal. Republicans are expected to push a vote this week, using international conflict and public anxiety to justify moving forward.
What this means in practice:
Airport disruptions create fast public pressure. That pressure can push lawmakers to “just fix it,” even if the deal includes harmful immigration enforcement policies affecting immigrant communities.
New Anti-Sanctuary Bill (House Judiciary Committee Vote)
What’s happening:
A new anti-sanctuary bill is being introduced and will receive a vote in the House Judiciary Committee (not yet a full House vote). If the bill passes committee, it is more likely to move to the full House floor. Stopping it in committee can slow or block momentum.
NILC Vote NO Recommendation shared via FIRM will be included in email.
FY26 DHS Spending Bill (House Vote Expected)
What’s happening:
The full House may vote on the FY26 DHS spending bill this week. The vote is being framed as part of shutdown negotiations.
TPS Terminations for Nepal, Nicaragua, and Honduras
What changed:
The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit allowed TPS terminations for Nepal, Nicaragua, and Honduras to go forward.
Article reference: National TPS Alliance statement
TPS Termination for Yemen
The administration terminated TPS for Yemen, with expiration noted for March 3.
Official DHS/USCIS announcement
What this means in practice:
Yemeni TPS holders may lose protection from deportation and work authorization after the termination takes effect, unless other immigration protections apply.
SAVE Act Passed the House
The SAVE Act passed the House and is moving to the Senate.
“This bill is an attempt at voter disenfranchisement that would require photo ID to register to vote or vote, on Wednesday.”
Bond Eligibility Rapid Response
The National Immigration Law Center released a Rapid Response Update on Bond Eligibility for Undocumented Immigrants.
Resource link: Rapid Response Update on Bond Eligibility for Undocumented Immigrants
Haiti TPS Discharge Petition
What’s happening:
A discharge petition is being used to try to bring Haiti TPS to the House floor for a vote. Advocates are pushing additional Members who previously said it was a priority but have not yet signed.
What is a discharge petition?:
A discharge petition is a House procedural tool that allows a majority of Members to force a bill out of committee and onto the House floor for a vote, even if leadership does not support it.
