Illinois Congresswoman Introduces 'Melt ICE Act' to Dismantle Immigration Agency

Proposal would eliminate Department of Homeland Security and defund ICE and its detention centers

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:47pm

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Rep. Delia Ramirez of Illinois has introduced the 'Melt ICE Act,' which would eliminate the Department of Homeland Security and defund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and its detention centers. Ramirez cited recent immigration enforcement actions in Chicago and Minneapolis as justification for the legislation, saying it is harming families, children, and small businesses. The proposal would redirect billions of dollars to housing, health care, and community-based services.

Why it matters

This legislation reflects growing calls to reform or dismantle federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE, which have faced criticism for aggressive tactics and human rights concerns. The 'Melt ICE Act' represents a significant policy shift that could reshape the nation's approach to immigration if enacted.

The details

The 'Melt ICE Act' would eliminate the Department of Homeland Security and defund ICE and its detention centers. Ramirez said the legislation would end what she called an 'unrestrained crusade of cruelty against our migrant neighbors and the places they call home.' She cited recent immigration enforcement actions in Chicago and Minneapolis as justification for immediately halting ICE funding, arguing that small businesses are suffering and children are afraid to give their names due to fear of deportation.

  • On January 22, 2026, Congress passed H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2026.

The players

Rep. Delia Ramirez

A Democratic congresswoman from Illinois who introduced the 'Melt ICE Act' to eliminate the Department of Homeland Security and defund ICE and its detention centers.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that Ramirez's 'Melt ICE Act' aims to defund and dismantle.

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What they’re saying

“Our small businesses are falling apart in this precise moment. Our children don't even want to give you their name because they're afraid that if you know their name, you will go after them and their families.”

— Rep. Delia Ramirez, Illinois Congresswoman (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

If enacted, the Melt ICE Act would divert billions of dollars to wraparound services, including housing, health care and community programs.

The takeaway

This legislation reflects growing calls to reform or dismantle federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE, which have faced criticism for aggressive tactics and human rights concerns. The 'Melt ICE Act' represents a significant policy shift that could reshape the nation's approach to immigration if enacted.