Oregon Joins Push to Stop DHS From Blocking Legal Oversight of ICE Detention Facilities

By Diane Megaw On Dec 5, 2025

Thirteen US senators, including USegon’s Sen. Ron Wyden, co-signed a letter to Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, insisting that DHS grant Congress access to immigration detention facilities.

After immigrant rights advocates, former detainees, and members of Congress raised concerns about conditions at ICE detention facilities, members of Congress and their staff were also denied access to multiple detention facilities this year.

The Appropriations Act of 2024 requires DHS and its components and agencies to allow members of Congress to inspect detention facilities without notice, and for their staff to enter if at least 24 hours’ notice is given.

Tidings Data Snapshot

Congressional Oversight Of ICE Detention: Key Facts

Senators who signed the Dec. 1 letter, including Wyden

0 hrs

Notice required for members to inspect detention facilities under the 2024 law

24 hrs

Minimum notice DHS may require for congressional staff visits

510

Credible abuse reports identified by Ossoff’s office by end of July 2025

7 days

Notice ICE allegedly tried to require for some staff inspections in 2025

Source: Sen. Hirono and Sen. Ossoff Dec. 1, 2025 letter summary, 2024 Further Consolidated Appropriations Act access rules, and related congressional oversight reporting
Dailytidings.com

In their letter to Noem, the senators accused DHS of illegally denying them access. They insisted that the Secretary provide answers to critical questions, including:

How many visits to DHS detention facilities were Members of Congress or their staff denied or delayed by DHS since January 20, 2025
How many visits were allowed without delay, and how many were delayed?
Can DHS please provide a copy of the most recent guidance to members of Congress and their staff
about Congressional access to facilities where individuals are held?
Can DHS please provide a copy of the most recent guidance for facility operators regarding Congressional access to detention facilities?

Tidings Timeline

2024 – Congress sets no-notice access for members and 24-hour access for staff.
Jan 20 2025 – New administration period referenced in oversight questions begins.
June 2025 – DHS issues guidance seeking tighter notice rules and blocking some field office access.
End of July 2025 – Ossoff’s office cites 510 credible abuse reports in federal custody.
Dec 1 2025 – Wyden and 12 senators demand full access; DHS response requested by Dec 15.