Government Shutdown Enters Seventh Week

The Department of Homeland Security shutdown is now in its 46th day, impacting approximately 260,000 employees across 15 agencies. While Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents are now receiving paychecks following President Trump’s executive order, many other federal workers remain unpaid.

Agencies Affected Beyond TSA

Agencies affected by the shutdown include Citizen and Immigration Services, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Secret Service, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and the U.S. Coast Guard. Notably, the Coast Guard is the only branch of the military funded through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Steps In

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA), the official relief organization for the Coast Guard, is providing assistance to civilian employees facing financial hardship due to the funding lapse. The organization is working to support those who feel “forgotten” during this period.

Employee Concerns and Impact

“They’re happy that these TSA agents who are on the front lines of keeping our nation safe every day are getting paid,” said Donnie Brzuska, communications officer for CGMA. “However, I would say they feel forgotten. That really starts to wear on you, especially as you’ve gone 6 weeks without a paycheck, and you feel like nobody has heard your story. Nobody knows the challenges that you’re facing. And again, that just reduces your focus on the mission.”

Rising Demand for Assistance

CGMA has received over 600 requests for help during the shutdown, totaling over $1.8 million in aid. This demonstrates the significant financial strain experienced by affected employees.

Pay Status of Coast Guard Personnel

Active duty Coast Guard members are continuing to receive paychecks on the 1st and 15th of each month, although there is some uncertainty regarding the source of these funds. During a previous shutdown in fall 2025, then-Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem authorized the use of a “One Big Beautiful Bill” to pay active duty members. It is currently unclear if the same authority is being utilized now.

Scripps News confirmed that active duty Coast Guard personnel received their paychecks on Wednesday. However, the financial outlook remains uncertain for the remainder of the Department of Homeland Security workforce.