One Big Beautiful Bill could expand immigration detention: Here’s how to weigh in

June 4, 2025 /

As part of the sweeping federal reconciliation package known as the One Big Beautiful Bill, Congress is considering a proposal to allocate $150 billion for immigration enforcement, including $45 billion for immigration detention alone. The bill has already passed the House and now heads to the U.S. Senate, where a vote could come soon.

According to the Detention Watch Network, the proposed $45 billion for detention is 13 times larger than Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) current annual detention budget.

Although the bill was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives, it must still pass the Senate, giving the public an opportunity to speak out before the measure becomes law.

How to Take Action

Anyone concerned about the proposed increase in detention spending is encouraged to contact their U.S. Senators and urge them to vote NO on the bill.

For California residents, here are your Senate representatives:

Individuals can submit comments through the Senators’ official websites or call their offices directly. Additionally, bit.ly/stop150billion offers a streamlined tool to send a message directly to congressional offices.

The bill’s fate is still undecided, and community input could shape the final outcome. Those concerned about the potential expansion of immigration enforcement and detention are encouraged to voice their opposition before the Senate vote.

Victoria Rodgers

Victoria Rodgers is an editor and reporter for Kern Sol News. Born in Bakersfield, CA, she received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Rockford University in Illinois. She can be reached at victoria@southkernsol.org.