The new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) secretary explained training requirements for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will increase. The move comes after widespread criticism of the agency’s immigration enforcement tactics throughout 2025. The issue was so contentious disagreements over funding even lead to a partial government shutdown in early 2026.

According to the New York Times, the average training hours for an ICE agent dropped forty percent between July 2025 and February 2026. The move was part of an government effort to streamline removals for undocumented individuals. Required ICE training hours return to their original levels on July 1, 2026.

As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.