The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a $70 billion funding package for immigration enforcement, border security, and customs agencies under the Department of Homeland Security through the end of President Donald Trump’s term.
The legislation passed by a narrow margin of 214 votes to 212 and has been sent to the White House for the president’s signature after clearing the Senate earlier this week, according to Reuters.
The bill is designed to expand the operational capacity of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by increasing staffing levels, expanding detention facilities, and supporting large-scale deportation operations.
According to PBS News, the Trump administration faces growing pressure to fulfill its pledge of deporting approximately one million migrants annually after falling short of expectations during its first year in office.
In April, ICE reported deporting more than 442,000 individuals between October 2024 and September 2025, representing a 63 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Human rights organizations strongly criticized the measure. Amnesty International USA said the legislation channels billions of taxpayer dollars into policies that fuel fear, family separation, and human rights abuses rather than supporting communities.
Kate Voigt, senior policy adviser at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), described the vote as approval of “unlimited funding” for immigration enforcement agencies without meaningful reforms, citing concerns over racial profiling, abuse, and inadequate oversight.
The legislation highlights the continued political divide over immigration policy in the United States, where border security remains a central issue ahead of future electoral contests.
