Noem's Contract Rule Leaves DHS with Backlog and Delayed Payments
Noem's policy requiring contracts over $100,000 to be approved by her has created a backlog at DHS, delaying payments to contractors and stalling programs including ICE detention facilities, FEMA disaster relief, and border-wall projects. As she leaves, dozens of contracts remain pending, leaving the next DHS secretary to unwind the system amid a partial shutdown and ongoing scrutiny of spending.
