As the Senate prepares to take up the remaining FY 2026 appropriations, we ask that Senators take into consideration the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' perspectives on these funding bills. 

In particular, as the Senate considers next steps for the DHS funding bill, Bishop Seitz, then-chairman of the Committee on Migration, wrote for FY2026 appropriations: 

Given the unprecedented funding already provided for immigration enforcement and detention through H.R. 1, we ask Congress to limit any further funding increases for these purposes in FY 2026 appropriations. 

Catholic teaching clearly recognizes a country’s right to regulate immigration and promote public safety, consistent with the common good. At the same time, the U.S. bishops have consistently opposed a disproportionate emphasis on enforcement, and we are deeply concerned that the current approach is undermining the already limited due process provided to noncitizens, threatening family unity, and fomenting discrimination. 

This for the formation of your conscience in order to act to promote the common good.