Minnesota Physicians Urge Congressional Delegation to Restrict ICE, CBP Activities in Healthcare Facilities and Other Sensitive Locations, and to Ensure Access to Medical Care at Detention Facilities

February 6, 2026

On February 5, the Minnesota Medical Association (MMA), along with several other physician advocacy groups, sent a letter to the Minnesota Congressional Delegation urging Congress, as a condition of ongoing funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to restrict U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) activities in or near healthcare facilities and other sensitive locations, and to hold DHS accountable for ensuring that detainees are provided with appropriate medical care, food, water, and other basic human needs.  

“Since the start of ‘Operation Metro Surge’, we have received troubling reports of ICE and CBP enforcement activity in and near hospitals, clinics, and schools,” the letter says. “This activity is, understandably, having a negative impact on the health and safety of your fellow Minnesotans.” 

The letter goes on to say: “We urge Congress to conduct rigorous oversight to ensure DHS compliance with current detention standards for care to ensure detainees have safe and sanitary conditions and access to appropriate medical care.”  

The other physician advocacy groups signing onto the letter include: the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians, Minnesota Chapter of the American College of Physicians, Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Minnesota Psychiatric Society, Minnesota Association of Geriatrics Inspired Clinicians, Minnesota Association of African American Physicians, Minnesota Dermatological Society, Minnesota Radiological Society, and the Minnesota Society of Clinical Oncology.