FEMA Implements New Rule Mandating States Use Terrorism Funding for Immigration Enforcement

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced a controversial new regulation stipulating that states must allocate a minimum of 10 percent of their terrorism prevention funding towards initiatives that assist in the apprehension of migrants. This decision is indicative of the Trump administration's sustained commitment to intertwine federal funding with its immigration enforcement strategies.

According to the updated guidelines provided by FEMA, this mandate applies to funds received from the Homeland Security Grant Program, which was originally established by Congress to prepare states for potential terrorist threats. Under the current cycle, a total of US$373.3 million will be distributed among the states, which must apply for their shares by August 11. The funds may be utilized for projects supporting President Trump's executive order on immigration, including the construction of detention facilities and fostering collaborations between local law enforcement agencies and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

When inquiries were made about whether Congress intended for terrorism prevention grants to also be used for immigration enforcement when legislating the program, the White House press office refrained from providing a direct answer, redirecting questions to FEMA instead. This recent development marks a shift toward a more involved state role in immigration operations, which have traditionally been managed at the federal level. All 50 states remain eligible for these funds each year under the new stipulation.