Rep. Delia Ramirez Introduces Legislation to Dismantle DHS

Rep. Delia Ramirez from Illinois has introduced a significant piece of legislation aimed at dismantling the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The proposal would also abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), leading to a major change in federal immigration enforcement.

The Reimagining Safety Act, proposed by Ramirez, seeks to replace DHS with a new Department of Community Safety. The legislation would maintain other federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Under the new plan, CBP, including Border Patrol, would be eliminated, which currently handles border security and screening travelers and goods entering the U.S.

The bill’s initial cosponsors include Rep. Rashida Tlaib from Michigan, Rep. Adelita Grijalva from Arizona, and Rep. Jim McGovern from Massachusetts.

Key elements include the prohibition of federal funds for border walls starting in fiscal year 2027 and the requirement to close Guantánamo Bay’s military detention center within 60 days of enactment.

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has criticized the proposal, stating that left-wing politicians are trying to abolish DHS, calling this move unrealistic. He argues that DHS’s 270,000 employees work to keep Americans safe.

A DHS spokesperson echoed Mullin’s sentiments, suggesting Ramirez should appreciate law enforcement’s removal of dangerous criminals rather than criticize them.

Ramirez defended her proposal, expressing her belief that DHS should be replaced by an agency that prioritizes community safety and reflects shared humanity.

“Every day, Americans have a reason to rethink the role of DHS and move towards a system that values human dignity,” Ramirez said.

As part of the proposed changes, the TSA and Coast Guard would be moved to the Department of Transportation. FEMA and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency would be incorporated into the new Department of Community Safety. Customs functions would potentially shift to the Treasury Department, while certain immigration responsibilities might move to the Justice Department.

For the legislation to become effective, it requires Congressional approval and presidential consent. Currently, none of the proposed changes have been implemented.