A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's policy requiring Congress members to provide seven days' notice before visiting ICE facilities. U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb ruled that the Democratic lawmakers challenging the policy are likely to prove it exceeds the government's statutory authority.

Judge Cobb found the Republican administration failed to cite any "concrete examples of safety issues" from unannounced visits. The policy, issued January 8 by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, was challenged by thirteen House members. Cobb had previously blocked a similar version in December, finding it likely illegal for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to demand advance notice for congressional oversight visits.

This marks the second time Cobb has ruled against the administration's attempts to limit congressional access to detention facilities. The judge emphasized that the government must "abide by the terms of the Court's order" and act consistently with established legal principles. The case highlights ongoing tensions between the executive branch and Congress over oversight of immigration enforcement operations.