Summary
The U.S. Supreme Court is examining whether GEO Group, a contractor for ICE detention centers, can appeal a lower court's decision about low wages paid to immigrant detainees before a final verdict. The case centers on whether GEO Group can claim immunity from lawsuits because it operates under government contracts. Justices expressed skepticism about GEO's claim to this immunity during recent court arguments.
Key Facts
- The Supreme Court is reviewing a case involving GEO Group's payment of $1-a-day to immigrant detainees for work at its facilities.
- GEO Group argues that as a government contractor, it should have immunity from certain lawsuits.
- The case questions if GEO can immediately appeal a lower court ruling under the collateral-order doctrine.
- Alejandro Menocal and other former detainees claim GEO forced them into labor for low wages.
- The case does not ask if the work program broke labor laws but if GEO can use the federal government's immunity.
- GEO argues its actions were directed by the government, offering a defense under the Yearsley doctrine.
- Justices express doubts about GEO's entitlement to immunity before a final court judgment.
- GEO Group reported $2.42 billion in total revenue in 2024.
