Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement:

“Republicans have once again put forward a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill that fails to create accountability for ICE’s reckless enforcement agenda and killing of U.S. citizens. I voted no, and I will continue to oppose full-year funding for DHS until ICE agents are required to follow the same rules as every other law enforcement agency.

“At the same time, Congress must ensure that FEMA, the Coast Guard and critical aviation security functions within DHS remain fully funded and operational. These agencies are essential to helping the communities I represent recover from last year’s devastating floods and prepare for the World Cup, and helping to keep Americans safe. I support legislation to fully fund every agency within DHS except ICE, CBP and the office of the Secretary.”

The House of Representatives voted today on a bill to fully fund DHS with no reforms to ICE and CBP operations. The bill passed by a final vote of 221 to 209.

Rep. Larsen is cosponsoring legislation to fully fund the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Coast Guard, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and every other agency within DHS except ICE, CBP and the Office of the DHS Secretary. He is the top Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has jurisdiction over FEMA, the U.S. Coast Guard, and TSA.

Rep. Larsen supports negotiating a full-year funding bill for ICE, CBP and the office of the DHS Secretary that creates accountability and oversight of ICE operations and DHS detention facilities.

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