Increased Funding and Technology for US-Mexico Border Security
This act boosts funding for Operation Stonegarden, a program supporting local agencies in border protection. It establishes a special fund from seized border money. It also mandates reports on drug cartels and border technology needs, aiming to enhance security and combat crime.
Key points
Increased Funding: An additional $180 million annually for Operation Stonegarden and $60 million for new technology (drones, sensors, communication equipment) to secure the border.
New Border Fund: Creation of a special trust fund from monetary instruments seized at the US-Mexico border, dedicated to the Operation Stonegarden program.
Threat Analysis: Requires reports to assess whether Mexican drug cartels meet the criteria for foreign terrorist organizations.
Improved Technology: Mandates an analysis of technology needs along the Southwest border, including evaluating new solutions to combat smuggling and illegal crossings.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_163
Sponsor: Rep. Gonzales, Tony [R-TX-23]
Process start date: 2023-01-09