USA03 April, 20261 min read
DHS Pauses Immigrant Warehouse Purchases, Reviews Noem-Era Contracts
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DHS paused procurement of immigrant detention warehouses while reviewing Noem-era contracts. Policy requiring secretary review of contracts over $100,000 was scrapped across DHS.
Warehouse Purchase Pause
DHS paused the purchase of new warehouses intended to house immigrants as it reviews all contracts signed under Noem. The pause came just days after new Secretary Mullin was sworn in.
Mullin inherited a $38.3 billion plan to boost detention capacity to 92,000 beds. The plan ran into intense opposition from communities across the country.
Contract Review Reversal
DHS reversed a Noem-era policy requiring the secretary to approve contracts over $100,000. The directive was lifted across all DHS components, including CBP and ICE. Mullin re-evaluated the contract processes to serve the American taxpayer efficiently.
Community Opposition and Legal Challenges
Local communities expressed shock and frustration after learning about ICE purchases. Lawsuits are pending in three states.
Plans for a 1,500-bed site in Surprise were scaled back to 542 beds. Mullin signaled he wanted to work with community leaders.