DHS Extends 'Mass Influx of Aliens' Finding for Another 180 Days

The Department of Homeland Security has extended its Finding of Mass Influx of Aliens, first issued in January 2025, for an additional 180 days. The finding allows DHS to request assistance from state and local law enforcement in administering immigration laws and cites continued strain on border and detention resources.

Key points

• The finding was first issued January 23, 2025, and has been extended multiple times since, most recently through September 17, 2026.
• This notice extends the finding for another 180 days, citing ongoing border encounters, criminal activity, and detention capacity pressures.
• DHS cites a court decision limiting direct repatriation under Proclamation 10888 as a continuing constraint on its enforcement capacity.
• As of August 2026, ICE detention facilities were at 83% occupancy, with 67,022 detainees against an 80,700 capacity.
• The finding permits DHS to authorize state or local officers, with their agencies' consent, to perform immigration enforcement duties.
• This is an agency notice documenting an existing policy action, not a proposed rule open for public comment.

Who is affected

The finding affects DHS and ICE enforcement operations, state and local law enforcement agencies that may be asked to assist, and individuals encountered at the southern border.

What to do