hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Limits ICE detention to 12 hours in holding facilities, ensuring humane conditions.
Rep. Stanton (D-AZ) with Ms. Ansari and Mrs. Grijalva.
Introduced in House, referred to Committee.
This bill aims to restrict U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from holding individuals in temporary facilities for more than 12 hours, except in specific emergency situations. It also sets minimum standards for humane conditions, such as providing food, water, and safe environments. The bill was introduced by Representative Stanton, a Democrat from Arizona, along with two other members, and is currently awaiting review by the House Judiciary Committee.
Introduced Apr 28, 2026
This bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives and assigned to the House Committee on the Judiciary for review. Before it can become law, it needs to be approved by this committee, pass a vote in the full House, then pass the Senate, and finally be signed by the President. No votes have occurred yet.
If this bill passes, individuals held by ICE could expect shorter stays in initial holding facilities, generally not exceeding 12 hours. These facilities would also be required to provide regular meals, immediate access to special dietary items for minors or pregnant women, constant access to drinking water, and be safe and clean. The Department of Homeland Security would face new requirements to document and report instances where individuals are held longer than the prescribed limit, increasing transparency and accountability for ICE operations.
Supporters Say
This bill ensures more humane treatment for immigration detainees by limiting holding times and setting basic standards.
Critics Say
This bill could complicate ICE operations and transfers, especially in areas with limited resources or high volumes.
Supporters would argue that this bill restores the intended purpose of holding facilities by preventing long-term detention in spaces not designed for it, thereby protecting detainee welfare as highlighted in the bill's findings. They would also emphasize the importance of basic humane conditions. Potential critics might contend that strict 12-hour limits, even with exceptions, could hinder ICE's ability to process and transfer detainees efficiently, particularly during peak periods or in remote locations, and that defining 'exceptional circumstances' broadly might lead to loopholes.