Think Immigration: Congress Must Reject Funding for 44,500 Immigration Detention Beds
Right now, Congress is considering a proposal in the FY2026 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill to fund 44,500 immigration detention beds. This isn’t just a budget line—it’s a dangerous expansion of a system that is already deadly, wasteful, and deeply flawed. We need to act now to stop it.
Why This Matters
- It Enriches Private Prison Corporations
Private prison companies GEO Group and CoreCivic stand to make millionsfrom this expansion. And they’ve also poured six-figure contributions into political campaigns to protect their profits. These corporations have a long history of documented failures, from inadequate medical care to abusive conditions. Every additional detention bed means more taxpayer dollars flowing into the pockets of politically connected contractors—not toward justice or safety. - It’s Unnecessary and Duplicative
Congress already allocated $45 billion for detention infrastructure through H.R.1, driving ICE’s detention population to a record 68,990 individuals. Despite claims that detention targets “the worst of the worst,” 92% of those detained so far this fiscal year have no criminal convictions. This isn’t about public safety—it’s about mass incarceration of immigrants. - It Fuels a Deadly System
December 2025 was the deadliest month on recordfor immigration detention, with six people dying in custody. Facilities are plagued by poor medical care, unsafe conditions, and even reports of sexual assault by staff. Expanding this system without accountability will only compound the crisis.
Congress Should Demand Oversight, Not Expansion
Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) recently emphasized that this moment calls for accountability—not blank checks. Lawmakers must insist that DHS demonstrate responsible use of the billions already provided before approving more funding. Adding beds without oversight is reckless and inhumane.
What You Can Do
We need your voice. Contact your Members of Congress today and urge them to oppose funding for 44,500 detention beds in the FY2026 DHS Appropriations Bill. AILA’s convenient and quick advocacy tool makes it easy to send them a message. Take action today!
The Bottom Line
This fight isn’t just about numbers—it’s about lives. Expanding detention beds means expanding suffering, abuse, and death. Let’s stand together and demand a system that values human dignity over profit. Call or email your representatives today and tell them: No more detention beds.
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