Bauer calls for oversight of new ICE detention center at Miami Correctional Facility
Today, State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) announced that she has sent a formal letter to Governor Mike Braun requesting formalized legislative oversight authority for the new federal immigration detention center at Miami Correctional Facility in Bunker Hill.
This week, the first 15 detainees were transferred to the state prison, with up to 100 expected by week's end and plans for as many as 1,000 in total. Indiana has already committed $16 million in state resources for fencing, staffing, and upgrades to support the arrangement. While the state will be reimbursed $291 per detainee per day, Bauer warned those payments are contingent on full bed use and may not cover the upfront or long-term costs to taxpayers.
"Indiana has never before housed such large populations of federal immigration detainees in its prisons," Bauer said. "Without clear safeguards, we risk detaining people without guaranteeing their constitutional rights, due process or humane treatment. At the same time, taxpayers are already on the hook for millions in up-front costs."
In the letter, Bauer noted that while the Intergovernmental Service Agreement (IGSA) requires compliance with National Detention Standards and permits unannounced inspections by ICE or federal oversight bodies, it does not explicitly grant authority for the Indiana General Assembly or legislative committees to conduct formal oversight tours or audit reports. She requested that the Governor clarify by executive directive or legislative order that such authority will be recognized, and that inspection findings be published to the state legislature.
Bauer also called on the Governor to ensure:
Confidential legal access and interpretation services for detainees.
Transparency through public reporting of detainee numbers, transfers, medical care and grievances.
Publication of the full IGSA and all attachments.
Protection of human dignity and safety through access to medical and mental health care, safe conditions and effective grievance procedures.
"Transparency, accountability and access to counsel are the minimum safeguards necessary to uphold Indiana's values and legal responsibilities," Bauer said. "Formalizing legislative oversight authority will ensure ongoing accountability as this facility expands."
Bauer emphasized that as a member of the Courts and Criminal Code Committee, she will continue to push for legislative oversight of the facility and has asked colleagues to support a hearing on the issue.