Mall of America could be affected if Homeland Security Funds Run Out

Like so many other large operations across the country, the mall is partially funded by Homeland Security

• By Matt Holden
• Feb 25, 2015

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said he needs resources to keep the nation safe, including the Mall of America, from potential terrorist attacks and targeting.

Funding to keep the federal agency open will run out this week unless both chambers of Congress pass a funding bill. The funding has bipartisan support, but the point of contention comes from amendments made by the Republican House that would take out cash to support President Obama’s executive actions on immigration reform.

“If Congress wants to have a debate about immigration, they should have a debate about immigration … but we have to get out of the business of leveraging one with the other,” Johnson said. “It’s bad governing, it’s bad policy, it’s bad politics.”

The Department of Homeland Security funds security efforts across the country. For example, nearly $10 million in funding is given to Minnesota law enforcement for extra security, including resources for the Mall of America.

If a shutdown occurs, 80 percent of those employed with Homeland Security would have to stay on the job without pay. This includes airport screeners and border patrol officials. Another 20 percent of workers would be let go.

“A shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security has real consequences to homeland security and public safety. Period. End of sentence,” said Johnson.