Chicago City Wire

Chicago, alongside Boston, Denver, San Francisco, and Seattle, has filed an amended complaint against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The cities are challenging DHS's decision to freeze funding under the Securing the Cities (STC) counterterrorism program. This federal initiative is designed to equip high-risk urban areas with resources to prevent nuclear and other terrorist threats. The cities argue that the funding freeze violates the law and endangers public safety.

"Securing the Cities was created to protect Chicagoans and other high-risk urban cities from catastrophic threats," stated Mayor Brandon Johnson. "DHS’s reckless freeze undermines our preparedness and puts lives at risk. We will not stand idly by while the federal government disregards its legal obligations and jeopardizes public safety."

DHS has previously entered into agreements with 13 local governments, including Chicago, providing funds for urban regions considered at elevated risk of terrorist attacks. These agreements dictate how local governments can spend STC funds and require DHS approval for other expenditures.

The plaintiffs have used these funds for significant events such as President Joe Biden's visit in November 2023, a rally by presidential candidate Donald Trump in October 2024, and both Democratic and Republican National Conventions in 2024. Typically reimbursed within 72 hours after incurring costs, since February 2025, DHS has not responded to reimbursement requests. Additionally, DHS has instructed plaintiffs to halt all purchases of radiological and nuclear detection equipment.

Chicago is currently awaiting over $1 million in reimbursements for pre-approved expenses. Federal grant regulations stipulate that agencies must process reimbursements within 30 days unless there is reason to believe a request is improper.

"The actions taken by the federal government are unconstitutional. The United States Constitution assigns the responsibility to enact laws and appropriate funds to Congress while requiring the President to execute those laws," said Corporation Counsel Mary B. Richardson-Lowry.

The plaintiffs seek compliance with federal law and an injunction against what they describe as an unlawful funding freeze.