ICE has spent roughly $1 billion acquiring eleven warehouses nationwide to boost its detention capacity, now holding about 58,000 immigrants, well short of the 100,000‑bed goal set last year. A wave of lawsuits argues the agency sidestepped the National Environmental Policy Act by claiming exemptions. The plan seeks to replace aging private centers and speed deportations.

In Maryland, a federal judge halted the conversion of a $100 million warehouse in Williamsport, citing the agency’s failure to address NEPA requirements. The ruling forced ICE to promise environmental assessments for at least two other sites, a process experts say could extend for months. Officials warn the conversion could overload lines and endanger a Potomac tributary.

The setback has pushed the Department of Homeland Security to conduct the reviews, delaying any further retrofits. Senior officials note that new homeland security secretary Markwayne Mullin remains wary of expanding the warehouse portfolio, despite ICE’s claim that owning facilities reduces reliance on private contractors. Compliance costs could erode budget savings.