Representatives Shri Thanedar, Bonnie Watson Coleman Introduce Legislation to Strengthen ICE Reporting Standards
Washington, DC - Yesterday, Representative Shri Thanedar and Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman introduced the No ICE Deaths in the Dark Act, comprehensive legislation that will ensure that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reports quickly and transparently on any deaths that occur in ICE custody. In a reversal from previous policy, ICE is no longer required to report certain deaths that occur within 30 days after release from custody, even when ICE detention or release conditions may have contributed to the death. This legislation would codify Biden-era reporting rules that required full reporting on these and all other deaths in ICE custody.
“Since President Trump took office, ICE has gotten out of control, detaining a record number of Americans in horrific conditions,” said Representative Shri Thanedar. “It is beyond unacceptable that detainees are dying in custody and ICE is refusing to report their deaths. I’m proud to introduce this necessary legislation with Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to ensure ICE finally acts with the transparency the American people deserve and to protect the lives of those in detention centers.”
“ICE has had free reign to attack people in front of cameras, so it’s imperative we demand to see what is going on behind closed doors,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. “Edwin Lopez-Cornejo, one of my constituents, was denied medical care and died in ICE custody. How many other detainees have suffered from medical neglect while in custody, only to die once released? These people deserve justice too.”
This legislation is co-sponsored by Representatives Steve Cohen, Herb Conaway, Jasmine Crockett, Danny K. Davis, Veronica Escobar, Adriano Espaillat, Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia, Dan Goldman, Al Green, Hank Johnson, Betty McCollum, LaMonica McIver, Analilia Mejia, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jan Schakowsky, Bennie G. Thompson, Rashida Tlaib, and Mike Quigley. It has also been endorsed by the following organizations: Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Coalition on Human Needs, Emgage Action, ICE Out of NJ Collective, Make the Road NJ, New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, Public Citizen, and the Vera Institute of Justice.
The full text of the legislation can be seen here.
Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive.
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