Gov. Hobbs says federal funding to support border security in Arizona has been delayed

PHOENIX — Several programs meant to secure the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona are dealing with funding delays due to a recent federal court order.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs sounded the alarm about the issue in a Wednesday announcement in which she said several initiatives, including Operation Stonegarden, are facing funding issues.

“Without these resources, Arizona’s ability to respond to emergencies and acts of terrorism will be significantly weakened,” Hobbs said in the announcement.

Operation Stonegarden is a border program that gives overtime pay and equipment for state and local law enforcement agencies on the border.

What’s causing the funding delays for Arizona border security programs?

All of the funds were going to be distributed via grants by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“These grants are not optional; they are a lifeline for key programs at the Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDHS), the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, county sheriffs, municipal police, emergency managers and firefighters,” Hobbs said.

The funding delays stem from a federal court ruling this week that requires border security programs to be manually reviewed.

“These delays will force local authorities to make impossible choices about what public safety measures they can and cannot afford to support,” Hobbs said.

A total of $69 million is now being delayed, and each reimbursement request could take three months to be approved.

Why is the federal government delaying distribution of border security funds?

FEMA officials say they’re reviewing reimbursements due to concerns that the grants will potentially encourage illegal immigration activity.

In response to the federal court ruling, officials with AZDHS are encouraging organizations waiting to receive the grants to continue communicating with FEMA.

Hobbs urged U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to ensure the funds are distributed as quickly as possible in a March letter.

“Delaying critical reimbursements to state and local law enforcement who support federal border security mandates and statewide drug and human trafficking interdiction efforts endangers public safety and undermines the security of Arizona and the nation,” she said. “These delays will force local authorities to make impossible choices about what public safety measures they can and cannot afford to support.”