WASHINGTON

US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on Friday urged swift action on legislation to "rein in" Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying Democrats are prepared to move quickly if Republicans are willing to negotiate in good faith.

"As the Senate gavels into session, members are working on moving forward on a deal to fund the government and working on legislation desperately needed to rein in ICE's abuses," Schumer said on the Senate floor.

His remarks came as the upper chamber continues work on a package of the remaining six spending bills funding major parts of the government, including the Homeland Security Department (DHS), to avert a shutdown at midnight.

"If Republicans are serious about the very reasonable demands Democrats have put forward on ICE, then there is no good reason we can't come together very quickly to produce legislation," Schumer said.

He outlined Democrats’ priorities, beginning with limits on ICE enforcement tactics. Schumer said reforms must include ending roving patrols and requiring clear rules, oversight, and judicial warrants.

The Democrat also called for stronger accountability measures for both ICE and US Customs and Border Protection.

In addition, Schumer emphasized the need for greater transparency in enforcement operations, including banning the use of masks by officers, requiring body cameras to remain on, and mandating visible identification.

"These are not radical demands. They're basic standards the American people already expect from law enforcement," he said.

Schumer concluded by pressing for prompt Senate action, saying time is running out.

“I hope we can get voting quickly here in the Senate today so we can move forward on the important work of reining in ICE,” he said. “The clock is ticking. The nation is waiting, and the abuses of ICE must come to an end.”