PHOENIX, AZ — Governor Katie Hobbs is urging federal authorities to expedite the release of essential border security and public safety funds after FEMA announced delays in the disbursement of grants due to a prolonged manual review process.
A federal court recently temporarily paused an order that required the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release funds for critical programs such as Operation Stonegarden, which supports state and local law enforcement in border security efforts. This delay is expected to last 60 to 90 days and will impact a range of homeland security funds.
Governor Hobbs issued a statement expressing concern over the delay, which she said endangers public safety and hampers Arizona’s efforts to combat drug trafficking and human smuggling. “Delaying critical reimbursements to law enforcement agencies supporting federal border security mandates puts the safety of Arizona and the nation at risk,” Hobbs said. “These funds are not optional; they are essential for the operations of the Arizona Department of Homeland Security, county sheriffs, municipal police, emergency responders, and more. These delays force local authorities into a difficult position, having to choose between critical public safety measures.”
The Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS) has informed local law enforcement agencies and other recipients about the delays and is offering additional guidance. The total amount of funding at risk is $69 million, which is now subjected to manual reviews, further delaying reimbursements for up to three months per request.
Among the affected programs is Operation Stonegarden (OPSG), which provides overtime pay and essential equipment for law enforcement agencies working on border security. These delays are expected to limit the ability of state and local agencies to effectively carry out their duties.
Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels voiced his concerns, stating that the delays hinder Arizona’s efforts to prevent criminal activities along the border. “Public safety is a priority for Arizona communities,” Sheriff Dannels said. “These programs rely on federal funding, and the delay limits our ability to respond effectively to security threats.”
Governor Hobbs continues to work with federal agencies, including DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, to find a solution to the funding delays and has called for the funds to be released as quickly as possible.
A full list of the affected FEMA funds is as follows:
Homeland Security Grant Program: $40,493,678
Nonprofit Security Grant Program: $13,367,090
State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program: $15,164,321
For further details, Governor Hobbs’ letter to Secretary Noem and the notification letter to subrecipients are available on the state website.
