Rep. Chu Questions ICE Director Saldaña on Transparency and Immigration Enforcement

Today, Sarah Saldaña, Director of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), testified before the House Judiciary Committee to answer oversight questions on immigration enforcement. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27), a member of the committee, asked Director Saldana about the agency’s policies on questioning immigrants about their status during labor disputes and why changes to that policy have not been made public. Rep. Chu released the following statement:

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to question Director Sarah Saldaña. For years, an important document called ‘Operating Instructions on Questioning Persons During Labor Disputes’ that details when a worker’s immigration status can be questioned, has been made available to the public so that advocates and immigrants can be as informed as possible. But earlier this year, ICE revised that document and did not release the changes. This lack of transparency is troubling and contrary to the Administration’s own goal of increasing transparency in all agencies. Immigrants deserve to know what they should expect when ICE agents arrive at a workplace, especially in the midst of a potential labor dispute. They also deserve to know that there will not be retaliation if they report workplace abuse or violations of workplace safety and basic worker rights. I appreciate that Director Saldaña said she would look into releasing the guidance and sitting down with immigration and labor advocates to discuss ICE’s policy in this area. I will continue to push for more communication between the agency and immigrants.”

The official testimony of Director Saldana can be found here.