A federal court issued a preliminary ruling blocking the Trump-Vance administration from enforcing a policy that required Members of Congress to provide seven days’ notice before visiting federal immigration detention facilities. The court found that the policy likely violated federal law and temporarily restored Congress’s ability to conduct unannounced oversight visits while the case proceeds.
The lawsuit, filed by a dozen House Democrats, argues that the administration’s restrictions obstructed lawful oversight and defied a statutory provision in the FY2024 DHS Appropriations Act. The court’s order reaffirms Congress’s right to access detention sites without prior notice — a safeguard designed to prevent abuse and ensure transparency in immigration enforcement.
The plaintiffs are represented by Democracy Forward and American Oversight. The ruling does not resolve the full case but signals judicial concern over executive attempts to limit congressional oversight. A final decision remains pending as litigation continues.