U.S. Lawmakers Demand Reforms to Immigration Officers’ Use of Tear Gas and Pepper Spray
U.S. lawmakers are calling for reforms regarding the use of tear gas and pepper spray by federal immigration officers. A ProPublica investigation revealed that many children were harmed by these chemicals during immigration enforcement actions. Legislators argue that stricter regulations are necessary to protect vulnerable populations, especially children, from the dangers of chemical munitions.
- ▪At least 79 children were reported to have been injured by tear gas and pepper spray during immigration enforcement actions.
- ▪Lawmakers are advocating for federal legislation to limit the use of these chemical agents by law enforcement.
- ▪The Department of Homeland Security's policies on chemical munitions are less restrictive than those of many local police departments.
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Federal agents fire tear gas and pepper spray into a crowd of protesters, including children, in Portland, Oregon, on Jan. 31. Courtesy of Kylie Cleveland U.S. Lawmakers Demand Reforms to Immigration Officers’ Use of Tear Gas and Pepper Spray A ProPublica investigation found that scores of children were hurt by these chemicals during President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Lawmakers say the findings show more restrictions are needed. by Lisa Song and Maya Miller May 27, 2026, 5:00 am {"componentName":"ShareToolsRebrand","props":{"pageTitle":"U.S.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ProPublica.