Fact Check: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could run out of money altogether by next month, November 2023.

Fact Check: "Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could run out of money altogether by next month, November 2023."

What We Know

The claim that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could run out of money by November 2023 is not supported by the current financial data available. According to ICE's FY 2023 Annual Report, the agency had the largest budget in its history, obligating 99.82% of its funding for that fiscal year, with only a 0.18% lapse in funds (ICE's FY 2023 Annual Report). Furthermore, the FY 2025 Budget proposal indicates that ICE is expected to receive $9.7 billion, which includes provisions for 21,479 positions and 21,439 full-time equivalents (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

While there are reports of a budget shortfall of approximately $700 million that could affect ICE's operations, particularly in its detention capacity (Media Tip Sheet: ICE Plans Mass Release of Immigrants Amid Budget Shortfall), this does not equate to ICE running out of money entirely. The agency is still operational and has sufficient funding to continue its essential functions.

Analysis

The assertion that ICE could run out of money is misleading and lacks context. While it is true that ICE faces a budget shortfall, the claim implies an imminent financial collapse that is not substantiated by the available data. The agency's reported budget for FY 2023 was substantial, and it has made effective use of nearly all of its allocated funds. The shortfall mentioned in various reports is a significant concern, but it does not mean that ICE will cease operations or run out of money entirely by November 2023.

Moreover, the sources discussing the budget shortfall, such as the Media Tip Sheet, highlight the potential for operational adjustments rather than an outright financial failure. This distinction is crucial, as it suggests that while ICE may need to adapt to a tighter budget, it is not on the brink of insolvency.

The reliability of the sources is generally high, as they come from official government reports and reputable media outlets. However, the interpretation of the budget shortfall may vary depending on the political context and the specific focus of the reporting.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that ICE could run out of money by November 2023 is false. While the agency is facing a budget shortfall, it is not in danger of running out of funds entirely. ICE has sufficient resources to continue its operations, although it may need to make adjustments in response to its budget constraints.

Sources

1. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
2. ICE's FY 2023 Annual Report
3. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
4. Comparing DHS Component Funding, FY2025: In Brief
5. Media Tip Sheet: ICE Plans Mass Release of Immigrants Amid Budget Shortfall
6. In Response to ICE Abducting Immigrants at Courts ...
7. CBP releases November 2023 monthly update | U.S. Customs and Border ...
8. Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report