Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act (H.R. 7335)

Summary

The Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in February 2026. The main purpose of the bill is to require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to perform comprehensive initial health screenings on all detainees in their custody.

Key Provisions:

1. Initial Health Screening Protocol: The bill directs the ICE Director and CBP Commissioner, in consultation with health experts, to develop guidelines and protocols for providing initial health screenings and appropriate medical care to individuals in ICE and CBP custody.

2. Standardized Screening Process: The initial screening must include an interview, vital signs checks, physical exam, risk assessment, and review of any prescription medications. High-priority individuals like those with acute conditions or disabilities must be screened within 6 hours of arrival.

3. Further Care: If the initial screening identifies health issues, the detainee must be provided appropriate follow-up care and monitoring.

4. Other Requirements: The bill also sets standards for water, sanitation, hygiene, food, nutrition, shelter, and coordination of surge capacity at ICE and CBP facilities.

Impact:

• Aims to ensure all individuals in ICE and CBP custody receive prompt, adequate health screenings and care, addressing concerns about inadequate medical attention in these facilities.
• Could improve health outcomes and living conditions for thousands of immigration detainees.
• Imposes new requirements and oversight on ICE and CBP operations, which may have budgetary and logistical implications.

The bill was referred to the House Judiciary Committee and Homeland Security Committee for further consideration after being introduced in the House.