The US Department of Homeland Security has issued new guidance mandating a 72-hour notice for lawmakers before visiting detention centers. This move follows recent confrontations between Democratic lawmakers and law enforcement at detention facilities amid President Trump’s immigration policies. While lawmakers have the right to inspect DHS facilities without prior notice, the updated guidance suggests that operational circumstances may impact visitation timing. Additionally, the distinction between Ice field offices and detention facilities has been clarified, exempting the former from visitation requirements.

In response, Mississippi representative Bennie Thompson criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for obstructing congressional oversight of Ice facilities. Thompson condemned the policy as an affront to the constitution and federal law, emphasizing the importance of oversight at detention sites. Recent incidents, including the arrest of New Jersey representative LaMonica McIver for allegedly assaulting federal agents during a facility visit, have sparked controversy and legal action.

Further incidents involve California Senator Alex Padilla being forced to the ground by law enforcement at a press conference and Illinois representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Jonathan Jackson being denied entry to an Ice facility in Chicago. New York City comptroller Brad Lander’s arrest and subsequent release, accompanied by Governor Kathy Hochul’s denouncement of the charges, have also garnered attention. These events underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding lawmaker visits to detention centers and the challenges faced in exercising oversight responsibilities.