Increased Border Security Funding and Anti-Cartel Measures.
This act boosts funding for Operation Stonegarden, a program supporting local border security efforts, and establishes a trust fund from seized border assets. It also mandates technology needs assessments for the U.S.-Mexico border and reports on drug cartels and Department of Homeland Security hiring practices. The goal is to enhance security and combat cross-border crime more effectively.
Key points
Increased Border Protection Funds: An additional $180 million annually for Operation Stonegarden and $60 million for equipment, including drones, from 2022-2025.
New Trust Fund: Money seized at the U.S.-Mexico border (e.g., undeclared monetary instruments) will go into a special fund to support Operation Stonegarden.
Border Technology Analysis: Requires a detailed analysis of technology needs along the Southwest border to improve crime detection and facilitate legal trade.
Drug Cartel Reports: Mandates an assessment of whether Mexican drug cartels meet foreign terrorist organization criteria, potentially impacting counter-cartel operations.
Hiring Transparency: Requires a report on Department of Homeland Security hiring practices to improve its operational capacity.
Expired
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