Story perspectives

$38 Billion Plan Sparks Controversy Over Immigrant Detention

2/17/2026

Center

DHS Expands Detention

The Department of Homeland Security plans to invest $38.3 billion to convert warehouses into immigrant detention centers, raising capacity to 92,600 beds.
Merrimack, New Hampshire, officials fear economic impact and lack of DHS transparency.
Georgia State Senator Jaha Howard proposes legislation to restrict state support for ICE facilities, citing a potential 10,000-bed center.
Maryland lawmakers demand answers on inhumane conditions at Baltimore ICE facility, noting overcrowding and inadequate resources.

Right

Trump's Detention Plan

U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration plan to convert warehouses into immigration detention centers in California's Inland Empire.
Local leaders, including Moreno Valley Mayor Ulises Cabrera, oppose the plan, fearing increased community anxiety and economic strain.
Activists say existing ICE facilities are overcrowded and poorly cared for, raising concerns about conditions in new centers.
Community coalitions are monitoring developments and ready to resist federal moves to establish detention centers locally.

1 of 2

DHS Expands Detention

The Department of Homeland Security plans to invest $38.3 billion to convert warehouses into immigrant detention centers, raising capacity to 92,600 beds.
Merrimack, New Hampshire, officials fear economic impact and lack of DHS transparency.
Georgia State Senator Jaha Howard proposes legislation to restrict state support for ICE facilities, citing a potential 10,000-bed center.
Maryland lawmakers demand answers on inhumane conditions at Baltimore ICE facility, noting overcrowding and inadequate resources.

1 / 2