The US House of Representatives has approved a $70 billion funding bill for immigration enforcement agencies, ending months of political deadlock over border security and immigration policy.
The legislation, which passed in a narrow 214-212 vote, will provide funding for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol through the remainder of President Donald Trump’s current administration. The measure now heads to the White House, where Trump is expected to sign it into law.
The vote largely followed party lines, reflecting the deep divisions in Congress over immigration enforcement. One independent lawmaker joined Democrats in opposing the bill, while Republicans remained united in support of the legislation.
The Republican-led Senate had already approved the measure after an extended voting session. Lawmakers used the budget reconciliation process, which allowed the bill to pass the Senate without requiring support from Democratic members.
The funding dispute had contributed to a 76-day partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security earlier this year. While a temporary bipartisan funding agreement ended much of the shutdown in April, lawmakers continued to debate long-term funding for agencies involved in immigration enforcement.
The legislation faced several hurdles during congressional negotiations. Earlier proposals included funding for security enhancements linked to the White House and a separate fund aimed at addressing claims of government misconduct against political allies. Those provisions were either removed or ultimately abandoned during the legislative process.
Democrats strongly opposed the bill, arguing that immigration enforcement agencies required additional reforms and oversight. Concerns intensified following the fatal shootings of two Americans by immigration agents earlier this year. Despite negotiations, lawmakers were unable to reach a bipartisan agreement on reform measures.
Supporters of the legislation say the funding will strengthen border security operations and ensure adequate resources for immigration enforcement agencies. Critics, however, argue that the bill prioritises enforcement without addressing broader immigration policy challenges facing the United States.