Immigration Notification for Facility Oversight and Relocation Management Act of 2025; INFORM Act of 2025
Summary
The INFORM Act of 2025 mandates that the Department of Homeland Security provide notice to the immediate family of an immigration detainee within 24 hours of their transfer to a new facility. This notice must include the reason for the transfer, the new facility's contact information, and a point of contact. The bill defines 'immediate family' broadly to include parents, siblings, children, spouses, and various step- and foster relationships, as well as common-law arrangements.
The Act also defines 'facility' as any detention center or property used for housing immigration detainees. The bill aims to increase transparency and provide families with essential information regarding the whereabouts and conditions of their detained relatives.
This bill addresses concerns about communication and oversight in immigration detention, potentially reducing anxiety and uncertainty for families.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to increased administrative burdens for the Department of Homeland Security, as they will need to establish systems for tracking detainee transfers and notifying families. It will also likely increase transparency and accountability in the immigration detention system.
Families of detainees will be better informed about their loved ones' locations and the reasons for their transfer. This could lead to improved communication and potentially reduce legal challenges related to detainee transfers.
Potential Benefits
- Provides families with timely information about the location and status of detained relatives.
- Increases transparency and accountability within the immigration detention system.
- May reduce anxiety and uncertainty for families of detainees.
- Could lead to improved communication between detainees, their families, and legal representatives.
- Ensures that families have access to contact information for the facility where their relative is detained.
Potential Disadvantages
- Creates additional administrative burdens and costs for the Department of Homeland Security.
- May require the allocation of resources to develop and maintain notification systems.
- Could potentially lead to increased litigation if notifications are not provided in a timely or accurate manner.
- The definition of 'immediate family' may be subject to interpretation and potential disputes.
- The 24-hour notification window may be challenging to meet in all circumstances.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The INFORM Act of 2025 aligns with constitutional principles related to due process and transparency. While the Constitution does not explicitly guarantee notification of detainee transfers, the Fifth Amendment ensures that no person shall be deprived of liberty without due process of law. Providing notice to families can be seen as supporting this principle by ensuring that families can access information relevant to their relative's detention.
Furthermore, the Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. It does not restrict freedom of speech, religion, or assembly, nor does it violate the right to bear arms or protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Overall, the Act appears to be consistent with the spirit of the Constitution in promoting fairness and transparency within the legal system.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).