Kaptur Calls For Transparency and Oversight in Rejecting Latest Homeland Security Funding BillPress Release

Washington, DC - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) voted to reject Appropriations legislation extending authorized spending levels for the Department of Homeland Security, citing reports of enforcement action violating law and order protocols based in basic Constitutional principles, and a serious lack of transparency around enforcement operating procedures. Kaptur called for the legislation to enshrine law and order protocols for accountability, transparency, and oversight attending to the award of federal contracts around arrest enforcement and detention, as well as to institute safeguards that protect bedrock Constitutional principles and safety for all.

"It is a fundamental tenet of democracy that no one person or no law enforcement agency in America is above the law. Basic questions about Constitutional protections and enforcement policy have gone unanswered for too long even as some in ICE violate basic enforcement standards that apply to every officer who wears a badge. Breaking into private homes without warrants, detaining residents without cause, and even deporting military veterans and US citizens including children with Stage 4 cancer is illegal and un-American. Operations that fall outside our Constitution put law enforcement and our communities at risk in a time of heightened tension.

"The rule of law protects everyone-officers and citizens alike. Law enforcement must be identifiable and accountable. Masks with no badges, no body cameras, and no oversight have no place in a democracy. ICE officers should follow the same excessive-force protocols as every police and Sheriff department in this country, wear visible identification, and use body cameras.

"I support citizens documenting what happens in their communities. Transparency is not a threat to public safety-it is the foundation of trust. The Administration's refusal to enforce safeguards and its disregard for the legal prohibition against deporting US citizens is unacceptable.

"I have consistently supported lawful border security-funding a major Border Patrol station in Ottawa County and the 180th Fighter Wing's Northern Border mission-done legally, openly, and with accountability. I have long a been a voice calling on Members of both parties to work together on bipartisan immigration enforcement policy. We can secure our borders and protect our communities without abandoning the United States Constitution. An improved version of the Homeland Security funding bill put before the House today could and must accomplish justice for the American people."

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