Advocacy Update l DHS Rescinds Pause on Immigration Enforcement

The Latest: 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rescinded the pause on immigration enforcement. During an agency-wide call, ICE field offices were directed to immediately resume worksite operations across all industries—including restaurants.

The Breakdown:

• The previous exemption for restaurants, farms, and hotels has been lifted.
• ICE and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents are instructed to continue site-based investigations and enforcement.
• DHS emphasized uniform enforcement—no industry carveouts.
• ICE is under pressure to increase arrest targets from 2,000 to 3,000 per day.

What’s Next:

• Field offices have resumed worksite enforcement activities nationwide.
• Employers should ensure all hiring and documentation practices comply with federal law.
• Watch the NRA/Restaurant Law Center webinar for a compliance overview.