State Legislators Address Immigration Detention Facilities

As the federal government expands its use of immigration detention facilities, states are taking steps to limit cooperation with federal law enforcement, assert oversight authority, establish enforceable standards in detention facilities, and protect the rights of detained individuals within their borders.

State lawmakers are deploying the full range of tools available to them — including legislation, direct oversight, litigation, and strategic communications — to ensure detention facilities meet basic standards of safety and transparency and to hold both federal agencies and private contractors accountable. These efforts reflect the commitment of states to protect vulnerable populations and push back against federal detention that conflicts with state laws and values.