More than 120 House Democrats have endorsed the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, spearheaded by Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington and Rep. Adam Smith, the leading Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee. The legislation aims to address what proponents describe as a troubling increase in wrongful detentions and inadequate conditions in facilities operated by private companies under government contracts.

Critics, including members of the Day 1 Alliance, a trade association for federal and state contractors in the criminal justice and immigration sectors, have expressed concerns that the bill could fundamentally alter the treatment of undocumented immigrants in the United States. They argue that the legislation does not genuinely seek to enhance conditions for migrants but rather threatens to eliminate the federal government's capacity to enforce immigration laws.

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act proposes to repeal mandatory detention for individuals apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and establish a presumption of release, particularly for primary caregivers and vulnerable populations. Additionally, it aims to phase out the use of private detention centers by 2029.

In response to recent incidents where lawmakers were denied access to ICE facilities, the bill would also require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to allow unannounced inspections by members of Congress.

Proponents of the bill, including Jayapal, have criticized the previous administration's policies, claiming they have led to a significant increase in the detention of individuals who have not committed crimes. Jayapal emphasized the need for legislation to protect the dignity and civil rights of all individuals in the U.S.

Rep. Adam Smith highlighted the appalling conditions faced by detainees, asserting that no one should endure overcrowded cells or lack access to medical care in facilities that profit from human suffering.

In contrast, DHS officials have dismissed claims of overcrowding and mistreatment as unfounded, asserting that ICE maintains higher detention standards than many U.S. prisons. They noted that the rate of deaths in ICE custody is less than 1%, which they claim is lower than any previous administration's record.

The proposed legislation has garnered support from over 123 Democratic co-sponsors, including several representatives from areas identified for mass enforcement activities. The ongoing debate reflects broader tensions regarding immigration policy and the treatment of detainees in the U.S.