1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support the Melt ICE Act, introduced on January 22, 2026, by Congresswomen Summer Lee, Delia Ramirez, and Yvette Clarke. This legislation would end Department of Homeland Security funding for immigrant detention and monitoring programs, and I ask that you oppose any appropriations that continue funding ICE custody operations before the end of January. Congress is scheduled to vote on an appropriations bill that includes $3.84 billion for ICE custody operations and $5.45 billion for Enforcement and Removal Operations. This funding perpetuates a system that has caused documented harm. According to Detention Watch Network, ICE now operates as the largest police force in the country, maintaining the world's largest immigration detention system where people are dying in custody. After providing more than $150 billion to DHS immigration enforcement, we have seen families torn apart and communities living in fear rather than safety. The Melt ICE Act offers a concrete alternative. It would strike all references to immigration detention authority in the Immigration and Nationality Act, terminate existing detention contracts within two years, prevent new detention contracts, and require a plan to remove immigrants from ankle monitors within six months. Critically, it redirects ICE funding to community-based organizations that provide housing and healthcare services to communities affected by immigration enforcement. This approach addresses real constituent needs. Millions of working families are struggling to afford groceries and healthcare while working multiple jobs to maintain housing. Redirecting billions in enforcement funding toward wrap-around services would provide tangible support to communities rather than funding a system that causes harm without improving public safety. I urge you to vote against the DHS appropriations bill before the end of January and to cosponsor the Melt ICE Act. Our tax dollars should support communities, not fund detention and surveillance systems that have failed to serve the public interest.