Governors’ Right to Inspect Act of 2026

This bill would let state Governors, and state health or safety officials they designate in writing, enter and inspect immigration detention facilities in their state for health and safety conditions. Federal funds could not be used to block these inspections, and inspectors could tour housing, food, and medical areas, speak privately with willing detainees, review certain records, and take notes and photos under security rules the Department of Homeland Security would set. Governors could inspect without notice, while designated officials would give 24 hours' written notice. Governors could send inspection reports to Congress, the Secretary of Homeland Security would have 60 days to respond to reports sent on by committees, and reports and responses would be posted online. Officials denied access could sue in federal court, and the bill states it does not let officials interfere with immigration enforcement or release detainees.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Adriano Espaillat Democrat sponsor
• 1 cosponsors