POD Act of 2024

HR 10274, the POD Act of 2024, requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to allow immediate or timely access for Members of Congress (or their designated staff) to inspect detention facilities housing immigrants or alien minors. The bill mandates that Congress members must be permitted to enter DHS facilities within 24 hours of requesting access, and HHS facilities housing minors within two business days, without temporary modifications that alter what can be observed during visits. It prohibits facilities from making any last-minute changes to hide conditions during congressional oversight visits. This bill directly affects all DHS and HHS detention facilities, including those operated by private contractors, by strengthening congressional oversight authority.