Georgia Lawmakers Propose Legislation to Stop ICE Detention Centers

Sen. Jaha Howard and Councilmember Helen Willis aim to prohibit state funds for ICE facilities and oppose their operation in local communities.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two Georgia lawmakers, Sen. Jaha Howard and South Fulton Councilmember Helen Willis, are taking action to prevent the establishment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centers in the state. Howard's proposed bill would prohibit the use of state funds to support any ICE detention facilities, while Willis' resolution would declare the city's opposition to ICE detention centers and state that South Fulton is not collaborating with ICE agents.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation reflects growing concerns among Georgia communities about the impact of ICE detention centers, which some view as disruptive to local character and stability. The lawmakers' actions come amid broader debates over immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies in local affairs.

The details

Howard's bill would ban the use of state funds to establish or support ICE detention facilities, while his existing bill SB 464 would prohibit the use of biometric identification methods by immigration agents in Georgia. Willis' resolution would formally oppose the operation of any ICE detention centers in South Fulton and state the city is not collaborating with ICE agents. The moves follow similar efforts by U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock to block federal funding for proposed ICE facilities in Walton and Hall counties.

  • On February 15, 2026, Howard and Willis were set to hold a joint news conference to outline their initiatives.
  • In recent days, Warnock proposed an amendment to the latest Department of Homeland Security funding package to prohibit federal funds for ICE detention centers in Walton and Hall counties.

The players

Jaha Howard

A Georgia state senator representing the 35th district, which includes parts of Cobb and Fulton counties.

Helen Willis

A South Fulton city councilmember.

Raphael Warnock

A U.S. senator from Georgia and a Democrat.

Gregg Poole

A Hall County commissioner who opposes the proposed ICE facility in Oakwood.

Eric Taylor

The city manager of Social Circle, Georgia, who is seeking more information about the proposed ICE detention facility in his community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“One of the questions I have is how they are going to get this done, and what's expected of us. How are they going to address all the water and infrastructure needs?”

— Eric Taylor, Social Circle City Manager

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.