Bill would guarantee lawmakers surprise access to DHS detention facilities
In committeeH.R. 10111Latest action
Sponsor: Christopher R. Deluzio · Representative · PA
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Official title: Oversight Access Act
119th Congress
Topics: Immigration
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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H.R. 10111 would bar DHS from blocking Congress members' unannounced visits to immigrant detention facilities.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
H.R. 10111, the Oversight Access Act, would stop the DHS Secretary from blocking Members of Congress or accompanying staff from entering facilities used to detain or house immigrants, without requiring advance notice. It would also bar DHS from temporarily altering a facility, such as cleaning it or moving detainees, to change what a visiting lawmaker sees. If the DHS finds the Secretary violated these rules, it must report this to the House and Senate Judiciary Committees within 30 days.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects DHS leadership and staff who manage immigration detention facilities and Members of Congress and their staff who conduct oversight visits. Detained immigrants are indirectly affected, since the law aims to ensure facilities are seen in unaltered condition.
Why does it matter?
The bill limits DHS's ability to restrict or stage congressional visits, while giving lawmakers clearer legal authority to conduct surprise oversight of detention conditions.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedAug 17, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Aug 18, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Accountability.