GEO Group Files Federal Lawsuit
GEO Group, a major private prison contractor from Florida, has legally challenged California over a state law allowing local public health inspections of immigration detention centers. The company argues California’s new law is unconstitutional since it treads on the federal government’s authority to manage these centers. The complaint even highlights the state’s alleged excessive attempts to curtail federal immigration enforcement.
Defendants Decline to Comment
The defendants named in this lawsuit include Governor Gavin Newsom, state Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Kern County health officer Kristopher Lyon. No comments from these individuals have been forthcoming so far as the first hearing is scheduled to take place in February.
GEO’s Expanding Influence on Immigration Detention
The company’s influence on immigration detention facilities could increase if President Donald Trump effects his promises of mass deportations of unauthorized immigrants. Private prison-based enterprises such as GEO are expected to thrive amidst Trump’s policies. Notably, GEO’s stock soared by 75% following Trump’s victory.
GEO’s Lobbying and Donations
Around $5.6 million was spent on lobbying and donations by associates of the private prison giant during the last election cycle. The majority of this went to conservative political action committees, which included a $1 million donation to Make America Great Again Inc.
California’s Stance on Private Detention Centers
California has repeatedly attempted to control immigration facilities with mixed outcomes. In 2019, Governor Newsom banned private prisons and detention facilities in the state, which a federal court later declared unconstitutional. However, in 2021, a bill was passed requiring compliance from private detention centers with health orders and safety regulations imposed by local and state authorities.
Role of Public Health Officers
This new law enables local public health officers, who routinely inspect county jails and state prisons, to also check private detention facilities. Detainees have raised concerns about health risks from covid-19, mumps, and chickenpox outbreaks, as well as issues like contaminated water, bad food, and poor air quality.
Arguments Raised by GEO Group
However, GEO alleges inconsistencies between federal standards and California’s health codes and regulations. The lawsuit cites California’s policy on detainees at risk of self-harm or suicide, which if implemented, could cost the company up to $500,000.
Alleged Neglect in Detention Centers
Opponents argue that federal authorities have inadequately maintained health and safety standards in these facilities. Therefore, allowing inspections by public health officers could enhance living conditions. However, GEO’s pushback against public inspection raises concerns. Detainees have lodged lawsuits citing concerns such as overcrowding, medical neglect, lack of adequate mental and health care, and unsanitary conditions.
The Struggles Inside the Detention Centers
Former detainees have shed light on their experiences. Ruben Hernandez Gomez, a former detainee, questioned why GEO is averse to an inspection if they comply with regulations. Incidents like hunger strikes have also pointed to alleged abusive treatment and poor sanitation at these centers.
Future Implications for Immigrant Health
Advocates worry that a legal victory for GEO could endanger the health of immigrants in detention centers. It’s noteworthy that previously when Washington state’s Department of Health was denied access to an immigration center, two deaths were recorded in the facility. Therefore, as this lawsuit progresses, one can only wonder: Is the privacy of a prison more important than the health of its inmates?