Rep. Delia Ramirez proposes bill to dissolve DHS and redirect $150 billion to communities
Representative Delia Ramirez introduced the Reimagining Safety Act, which would eliminate the Department of Homeland Security and shift roughly $150 billion in federal funds to local programs.
Illinois Congresswoman Delia Ramirez announced the Reimagining Safety Act, a proposal that would tear down the Department of Homeland Security, terminate Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection, and establish a cabinet-level Department of Community Safety. The bill seeks to transfer the Transportation Security Administration and the Coast Guard to the Department of Transportation to shield them from political pressure.
Ramirez estimates the restructuring would free at least $150 billion, which she says should be reinvested in programs that support working families, including health care, housing and food aid. State Rep. Norma Hernandez joined the press event, criticizing one outlet allocation of funds toward ICE and border enforcement while community needs go unmet. Illinois Republican Party Chairman Bob Grogan warned that the proposal arrives amid debates over state spending on migrant care, which has exceeded $900 million for fiscal year 2025. Ramirez indicated she will seek co-sponsors and expects to file the bill in the coming weeks.
