Summary
Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, is expected to leave many contracts unapproved when she leaves office in three weeks. Her policy of needing her approval for large contracts has caused delays in DHS projects like deportations, the border wall, and disaster relief. The issue worsens due to a government shutdown affecting DHS agencies.
Key Facts
- Kristi Noem set a policy for her office to review and approve contracts of $100,000 or more.
- This has caused a backlog of contracts and delayed payments to vendors.
- Projects delayed include President Trump's mass deportations and border wall initiatives.
- The partial government shutdown starting February 14 has affected DHS spending.
- Many detention facilities are operating without payments as their contracts await approval.
- Facilities affected include Camp East Montana, the Dilley family detention center, and Delaney Hall.
- Several DHS agencies impacted include ICE, Customs and Border Protection, and FEMA.
- Congressional leaders questioned Noem about delays in distributing FEMA disaster relief funds.
