Judge Orders ICE to Open Doors to Congress

A federal judge has ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) must allow members of Congress to inspect its detention centers. The decision targets two policies announced by ICE in June. Judge Jia M. Cobb found these rules likely violate the law by blocking lawmakers from making unannounced visits. The ruling is a temporary order. It requires ICE to permit congressional inspections while the legal case continues. Congress members argue that surprise visits are essential for proper oversight. They say announced tours can hide real conditions inside facilities. ICE has not yet commented on the judge's order. The agency can still appeal the decision.