Oppose H.R. 4371 and Protect Immigrant Children from Prolonged Detention

I am writing to urge you to oppose H.R. 4371, which the House of Representatives passed on Tuesday. This legislation dangerously expands federal authority to detain unaccompanied immigrant children who arrive in the United States without a parent or guardian, preventing many from being released to loved ones while their immigration cases proceed. The bill's provisions would subject vulnerable children to prolonged detention and authorize invasive search practices. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, these extended detentions could cause serious and permanent psychological harm to children who are already experiencing trauma from separation and displacement. This is not protective legislation as some have claimed. It is a callous expansion of detention practices that strips children of their rights and dignity. Children belong with their families, not in detention facilities. When children have loved ones ready to care for them during immigration proceedings, keeping them detained serves no legitimate purpose and inflicts unnecessary suffering. The psychological consequences of prolonged detention on developing minds are well documented and can last a lifetime. I am asking you to reject H.R. 4371 when it comes before the Senate. Our immigration system should prioritize the welfare and safety of children, not expand detention infrastructure that causes them harm. These are children who have already endured difficult journeys and circumstances. Our response should be guided by compassion and evidence about what actually protects children, not policies that disappear them into detention centers away from family members who want to care for them. Please stand against this legislation and work toward immigration policies that recognize the humanity and vulnerability of children. I look forward to your response on where you stand on H.R. 4371.