This bill would require the Department of Homeland Security and its agencies to expand inspections of people and vehicles traveling from the United States to Mexico. It authorizes purchase of up to 50 non-intrusive imaging systems and related infrastructure, allows alternative inspection equipment, and limits those authorities to 5 years. The bill requires U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Homeland Security Investigations) to hire at least 200 new special agents (100 focused on currency and firearms smuggling; 100 on contraband, human trafficking, drugs, and unauthorized entry) and any needed support staff. DHS must produce a report within one year listing resources, inspection rates, use of alternative inspection sites, estimates of vehicles that could be inspected with the additional machines, and an assessment of Mexican authorities’ inbound inspection capabilities. The bill directs a minimum inspection requirement that, by March 30, 2027, at least 10% of conveyances leaving the United States for Mexico be inspected, and a follow-up report by March 30, 2028 on resources and timelines to reach 15% and 20% inspection rates. It also requires quarterly reports for up to four years on seizures of currency, firearms, and ammunition from outbound inspections. Certain reports or parts may be classified.
The bill’s text states its purpose is to enhance southbound inspection capabilities to detect and interdict smuggling of currency, firearms, contraband, drugs, and human trafficking, and to support investigations aimed at combating cartel-related smuggling. Sponsors direct DHS and ICE to increase equipment, personnel, and reporting to Congress to achieve those goals.
No publicly available information.