Democratic lawmakers sue over ICE’s new policy limiting access to detention centers

Twelve Democratic members of Congress have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration , accusing it of unlawfully obstructing their efforts to visit federal immigration detention centers.

The complaint, filed Wednesday in Washington, DC, argues that a new Department of Homeland Security policy that requires seven days’ notice and limits access to certain field offices violates a longstanding federal law that permits unannounced inspections by members of Congress.

Visits by members of Congress have been one of the few ways the public has learned what’s happening inside immigration detention centers. Lawmakers have reported overcrowded cells, spoiled food, medical neglect, and even the unlawful detention of US citizens.

Without access, plaintiffs argue, ICE facilities could opera