On Jan. 30th, the Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS) bill, which is the one that funds ICE, is up for a vote in the Senate. This funding runs out at the end of the month. In order for this bill to pass, no less than 60 votes are needed. The current United States Senate consists of 52 Republican members, 44 Democrats and two Independents (Bernie Sanders – Vt. and Angus King – Me., who usually vote with Democrats). As we can see the Republicans need at least eight Democrats to vote with them and that terrorist group receives more funding.
ICE is investing roughly $100 million towards the recruitment of 10,000 new agents, adding to the 20,000 already employed. Just under the size of the Marine Corps Reservists, to put the numbers in perspective. They are permitted to use lethal force in self-defense, although we have seen time and again no one is attacking them! They roam our streets in unmarked cars, wearing masks, body armor and carry militarized weapons, using brutality to bully and frighten not just immigrants but law-abiding citizens.
What can we do? We can ensure the ICEstapo loses its funding!
How? By demanding, yes demanding, our members of Congress and the Senate require the DHS spending bill must prohibit ICE from carrying weapons!
Our members of Congress and the Senate must clearly and directly declare that ICE does not have absolute immunity under the law if they harm or murder civilians!
Who? Sen. Maggie Hassan; 202-224-3324; Email Senator Hassan | U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan
Sen. Jeanne Shaheen; 202-224-2841; Contact | U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen
Rep. Maggie Goodlander; 202-225-5206; EMAIL Maggie - Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander
Rep. Chris Pappas; 202-225-5456; ZIP Code Authentication | Congressman Chris Pappas
Let’s overload their voice mail and email:
~ The DHS spending bill must prohibit ICE from carrying weapons.
~ The bill must include that ICE has no absolute immunity under the law if they harm or murder civilians.
~ Include that they must not target people because of race, language or accent.
~ Include that ICE agents are liable under civil and criminal law if they harm or murder civilians.
~ ICE members need to be reminded of both the 5th Amendment and the 14th amendment, specifically the Due Process Clause.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for taking the time to defend our fragile democracy and fellow human beings yet again!