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• Border Patrol: Actions Needed to Improve Oversight of Post-Apprehension Consequences, Report to the Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives

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  "To address smuggling along the U.S. southwest border, the U.S. Border Patrol developed CDS [Consequence Delivery System]--a process to classify each apprehended alien into criminal or noncriminal categories and apply consequences, such as federal prosecution. Each Border Patrol sector ranks up to eight consequences from Most to Least Effective and Efficient to reduce recidivism. GAO [Government Accountability Office] was asked to review and assess Border Patrol's implementation of CDS across the southwest border. This report examines the extent to which Border Patrol (1) has a methodology for calculating recidivism that allows it to assess CDS program effectiveness, (2) applied consequences it determined to be most effective and efficient in each southwest border sector and (3) established guidance and controls to monitor field implementation of CDS. GAO analyzed Border Patrol's recidivism rate methodology; apprehension data and CDS application along the southwest border for fiscal years 2013 through 2015, the most recently available data; and DHS's U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement data on alien removals. GAO also interviewed Border Patrol personnel and reviewed CDS guidance. GAO is making six recommendations to strengthen the methodology for measuring recidivism, assess reasons agents do not apply CDS guides' Most Effective and Efficient consequence, and ensure performance management oversight. DHS concurred with all but one recommendation, which relates to strengthening its recidivism methodology, citing other means to measure CDS performance. GAO believes the recommendation remains valid, as discussed in the report."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2017-01-12
• Border Security: Summary of Covert Tests and Security Assessments for the Senate Committee on Finance, 2003-2007, Report to the Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate

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  "From January 2003 to September 2007, GAO testified before the Committee on three occasions to describe security vulnerabilities that terrorists could exploit to enter the country. GAO's first two testimonies focused on covert testing at ports of entry-the air, sea, and land locations where international travelers can legally enter the United States. In its third testimony, GAO focused on limited security assessments of unmanned and unmonitored border areas between land ports of entry. GAO was asked to summarize the results of covert testing and assessment work for these three testimonies. This report discusses the results of testing at land, sea, and air ports of entry; however, the majority of GAO's work was focused on land ports of entry. The unmanned and unmonitored border areas GAO assessed were defined as locations where the government does not maintain a manned presence 24 hours per day or where there was no apparent monitoring equipment in place. GAO assessed a nonrepresentative selection of these locations and did not attempt to evaluate all potential U.S. border security vulnerabilities. Further, GAO's work was limited in scope and cannot be projected to represent systemic weaknesses. In response to this report, DHS provided a written update on numerous border protection efforts it has taken to enhance border security since 2003. GAO did not attempt to verify the information provided by DHS, but has included the response in this report."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2008-05
• Serial No. 113-50: Examining Challenges and Wasted Taxpayer Dollars in Modernizing Border Security IT Systems, Hearing Before the Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Efficiency, House of Representatives, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, February 6, 2014

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  This is from the February 6, 2014 hearing, "Examining Challenges and Wasted Taxpayer Dollars in Modernizing Border Security IT Systems" before the House Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Efficiency of the Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of Jeff Duncan: "Today, we will examine DHS's efforts to modernize key information technology (IT) systems used by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), specifically the TECS modernization program. [...] A legacy system in operation since 1987, TECS has become increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain due to the system's antiquated technology and its inability to support the requirements needed by CBP and ICE personnel in the field. Despite TECS's critical importance to our security, CBP and ICE have failed to manage the modernization program effectively. As the Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently reported, the result has been wasted taxpayer dollars, missed deadlines, and delays in fielding enhancements to CBP officers and ICE agents. [...] With the speed with which technology advances today, it shouldn't take DHS eight years to complete an IT project. Private sector CEOs likely wouldn't tolerate such poor performance and management. Neither should DHS. It's an affront to the American taxpayer and it's time DHS do better." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Jeff Duncan, David A. Powner, Charles R. Armstrong, and Thomas P. Michelli.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2014
• Department of Homeland Security: Border Security Status Report: Third Quarter, Fiscal Year 2016 (Fiscal Year 2016 Report to Congress)

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  "DHS secures our Nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade. The Department's border security and management efforts focus on three interrelated goals: effectively securing U.S. air, land, and sea borders; safeguarding and streamlining lawful trade and travel; and disrupting and, in coordination with other federal agencies, dismantling transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. Through the unprecedented deployment of personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. border never has been more secure. The integration of intelligence and enforcement capabilities through intergovernmental task forces and partnerships has facilitated better information sharing, leading to the increased interdiction of drugs, weapons, and currency. By focusing on the highest threats and rapidly responding, DHS has strengthened security across all U.S. borders while facilitating international travel and trade."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security; U.S. Customs and Border Protection

  2017-04-03
• Department of Homeland Security: Border Security Status Report: First Quarter, Fiscal Year 2018 (Fiscal Year 2018 Report to Congress)

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  "DHS secures our Nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade. The Department's border security and management efforts focus on three interrelated goals: effectively securing U.S. air, land, and sea borders; safeguarding and streamlining lawful trade and travel; and disrupting and, in coordination with other federal agencies, dismantling transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. Through the unprecedented deployment of personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. borders never have been more secure. The integration of intelligence and enforcement capabilities through intergovernmental task forces and partnerships has facilitated better information sharing, leading to the increased interdiction of drugs, weapons, and currency. By focusing on the largest threats and rapidly responding, DHS has strengthened security across the U.S. borders while facilitating international travel and trade."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2018-08-08
• Department of Homeland Security: Border Security Status Report, Second Quarter, Fiscal Year 2015 (Fiscal Year 2015 Report to Congress)

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  From the Executive Summary: "DHS secures our Nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade. The Department's border security and management efforts focus on three interrelated goals: effectively securing U.S. air, land, and sea borders; safeguarding and streamlining lawful trade and travel; and disrupting and, in coordination with other federal agencies, dismantling transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. Through the unprecedented deployment of personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. border has never been more secure. The integration of intelligence and enforcement capabilities through intergovernmental task forces and partnerships has facilitated better information sharing leading to the increased interdiction of drugs, weapons, and currency. By focusing on the highest threats and responding rapidly, DHS has strengthened security across all U.S. borders while simultaneously facilitating international travel and trade."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2016-07-11
• Department of Homeland Security: Border Security Status Report, First Quarter, Fiscal Year 2015 (Fiscal Year 2015 Report to Congress)

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  From the Executive Summary: "DHS secures our Nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade. The Department's border security and management efforts focus on three interrelated goals: effectively securing U.S. air, land, and sea borders; safeguarding and streamlining lawful trade and travel; and disrupting and, in coordination with other federal agencies, dismantling transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. Through the unprecedented deployment of personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. border has never been more secure. The integration of intelligence and enforcement capabilities through intergovernmental task forces and partnerships has facilitated better information sharing leading to the increased interdiction of drugs, weapons, and currency. By focusing on the highest threats and rapidly responding, DHS has strengthened security across all U.S. borders while simultaneously facilitating international travel and trade."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2016-07-06
• Department of Homeland Security: Border Security Status Report, Fourth Quarter, Fiscal Year 2015 (Fiscal Year 2015 Report to Congress)

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  From the Executive Summary: "DHS secures our Nation's air, land, and sea borders to prevent illegal activity while facilitating lawful travel and trade. The Department's border security and management efforts focus on three interrelated goals: effectively securing U.S. air, land, and sea borders; safeguarding and streamlining lawful trade and travel; and disrupting and, in coordination with other federal agencies, dismantling transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. Through the unprecedented deployment of personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the U.S. border never has been more secure. The integration of intelligence and enforcement capabilities through intergovernmental task forces and partnerships has facilitated better information sharing, leading to the increased interdiction of drugs, weapons, and currency. By focusing on the highest threats and rapidly responding, DHS has strengthened security across all U.S. borders while facilitating international travel and trade."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2016-11-21
• Letter Dated May 18 2006 from President George W. Bush to Speaker Hastert Requesting Additional Funds for the Department of Homeland Security to Gain Full Control of the Borders through Deployment of Additional Border Patrol Agents

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  "The revised request for the Department of Homeland Security will support the Administration's commitment to gain full control of the borders through the deployment of additional Border Patrol agents, infrastructure, and technology (such as hundreds of miles of new roads, vehicle barriers, tactical communications, and aerial surveillance)."

  United States. White House Office

  2006-05-18
• Fact Sheet: Securing America's Borders CBP 2006 Fiscal Year in Review

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  "During fiscal year 2006, U.S. Customs and Border Protection made significant progress toward securing our nation's border at and between the ports of entry. Through operations, increases in staffing, additional infrastructure and better technology, and the support of the President and Congress, CBP's frontline personnel were better equipped in fiscal year 2006 than any period in the nation's history."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2006-10-31
• President Bush Discusses Border Security and Comprehensive Immigration Reform, Participates in Swearing-In Ceremony for CBP Commissioner [June 6, 2006]

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  In this transcript, President Bush discusses border security and immigration reform. He also participates in the swearing-in ceremony for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner, Ralph Basham.

  United States. Office of the White House Press Secretary

  Bush, George W. (George Walker), 1946-

  2006-06-06
• Solving the OTM Undocumented Alien Problem: Expedited Removal for Apprehensions along the U.S. Border: Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, First Session, September 28, 2005

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  From the opening statement of Daniel Lungren: "The subcommittee is meeting today to hear testimony on how the expedited removal program will enhance DHS's capabilities to detain and remove non-Mexican aliens from the U.S… We are here today to ensure that the appropriate resources and training exist within and across those agencies that are tasked with this important mission. Not only does the Border Patrol need to expand the use of expedited removal procedures, but there must also be adequate detention space to hold those who are apprehended. Necessary country clearances and travel documents must be obtained in a timelier fashion so that those undocumented aliens may be returned to their home countries more expeditiously…At a time in our nation's history when there are terrorists who wish to infiltrate our borders for the purpose of inflicting harm on any American, our own policies have created a system that apparently encourages more undocumented aliens to enter the U.S. illegally. It is my belief that it is this system of border security that the president intended us to reexamine in the post-9/11 world. It is also my belief that this system of border security allows potential terrorists to enter the U.S. between our ports of entry and slip into our society undetected, especially as we harden other legitimate means of entry." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Daniel E. Lungren, Loretta Sanchez, Mark E. Souder, David V. Aguilar, Daniel W. Fisk, John Torres, and Sheila Jackson-Lee.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2007
• New Approach to Increase Trade and Security: An Examination of CBP's Public and Private Partnerships, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security of the Committee on Homeland Security, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, First Session, November 4, 2015

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  This is a testimony compilation of the November 4, 2015 hearing "A New Approach to Increase Trade and Security: An Examination of CBP's Public and Private Partnerships," held before the House Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of subcommittee chairman Candice Miller: "The commerce that moves through the nation's ports of entry powers our economy, drives job creation and is fundamental to our way of life. If ports of entry shut down, or traffic is backed up -- millions of dollars may be lost, economic growth comes to an abrupt halt, travelers find other destinations to visit, and would-be customs revenue destined for the U.S. Treasury goes away. Despite the importance of ports of entry to the nation's economic health, port of entry modernization efforts have been significantly underfunded, and Customs and Border Protection [CBP] staffing has not kept pace with growing demand. While CBP is frequently asked to provide new or additional service at ports of entry across the country, CBP is often unable to accommodate these requests due to staffing shortages and other resource constraints. Over the past few years this Congress has appropriated more than $2 billion dollars for port of entry construction, but that is dwarfed by the estimated $ 4-6 billion dollars needed to fully modernize our ports of entry. Air passenger volumes are growing at a rate of 4 to 5 percent a year, the nation has experienced a 24% increase in cargo containers since the dark days of the Great Recession, and more cars and trucks transit the land ports of entry than ever before. We are falling further behind every year to match the demands placed on our CBP officers and infrastructure." Statements, letters, and other materials submitted for the record include those of the following: John Wagner, Michael Gelber, Sam F. Vale, and David A. Garcia.

  United States. Congress. House. Committee on Homeland Security

  2015-11-04
• Assessment of Risks at the Northern Border and the Infrastructure Necessary to Address Those Risks: Joint Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure, Protection, and Cybersecurity Joint with the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Science and Technology of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, Second Session, August 8, 2006

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  From the opening statement of Dan Lungren: "As many of you may know, the issue of border security, the issue of immigration, the issue of the threat of terrorism and its implications for both of those first two subjects has garnered a lot of attention in the Congress and throughout the country. There are a number of hearings being held around the country on these subjects. Our Subcommittees believed it was important for us to ensure that the northern border not be left out, that we have an opportunity to look at the unique circumstances that we find on our northern border, that we understand in all of its facets the seriousness of attending to the issue of securing our border on the north, and at the same time trying to understand even better the relationship that exists between our country and our neighbors to the north and attempt to come up with solutions to the problems that are presented without, as we suggested, unduly interfering with the steady flow of commerce with our northern neighbors." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Daniel E. Lungren, Loretta Sanchez, Marks Asmundson, Norman D. Dicks, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Dave G. Reichert, Thomas Hardy, Ronald Henley, Timothy J. Lowenberg, Dale Brandland, Martin Collacott, David B. Harris, Gregory Johnson, K. Jack Riley, Donald J. Alper, Maria Cantwell, Rick Larsen, Davis S. McEachran.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2007
• Border Security: Immigration Enforcement Between Ports of Entry [January 06, 2012]

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  "Border enforcement is a core element of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS's) effort to control illegal migration, with the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) within the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as the lead agency along most of the border. Border enforcement has been an ongoing subject of congressional interest since the 1970s, when illegal immigration to the United States first registered as a serious national problem; and border security has received additional attention in the decade following the terrorist attacks of 2001. Since the 1990s, migration control at the border has been guided by a strategy of 'prevention through deterrence'--the idea that the concentration of personnel, infrastructure, and surveillance technology along heavily trafficked regions of the border will discourage unauthorized aliens from attempting to enter the United States. Since 2005, CBP has attempted to discourage repeat entries and disrupt migrant smuggling networks by imposing tougher penalties against certain unauthorized aliens, a set of policies known as 'enforcement with consequences.'"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Rosenblum, Marc R.

  2012-01-06
• Border Security: Immigration Enforcement Between Ports of Entry [May 3, 2013]

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  "Border enforcement is a core element of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS's) effort to control illegal migration, with the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) within the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as the lead agency along most of the border. Border enforcement has been an ongoing subject of congressional interest since the 1970s, when illegal immigration to the United States first registered as a serious national problem; and border security has received additional attention in the decade following the terrorist attacks of 2001. Since the 1990s, migration control at the border has been guided by a strategy of 'prevention through deterrence'--the idea that the concentration of personnel, infrastructure, and surveillance technology along heavily trafficked regions of the border will discourage unauthorized aliens from attempting to enter the United States. Since 2005, CBP has attempted to discourage repeat entries and disrupt migrant smuggling networks by imposing tougher penalties against certain unauthorized aliens, a set of policies known as 'enforcement with consequences.'"

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Rosenblum, Marc R.

  2013-05-03
• Border Security: Additional Actions Needed to Better Ensure a Coordinated Federal Response to Illegal Activity on Federal Lands, Report to Congressional Requesters

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  "Federal and tribal lands on the U.S. borders with Canada and Mexico are vulnerable to illegal cross-border activity. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)--through its U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Office of Border Patrol (Border Patrol)--is responsible for securing these lands, while the Departments of the Interior (DOI) and Agriculture (USDA) manage natural resources and protect the public. GAO [Government Accountability Office] was asked to examine the extent that (1) border security threats have changed on federal lands; (2) federal agencies operating on these lands have shared threat information and communications; and (3) federal agencies have coordinated budgets, resources, and strategies. GAO reviewed interagency agreements and threat assessments; analyzed enforcement data from 2007 through 2009; and interviewed officials at headquarters and two Border Patrol sectors selected due to high volume of illegal cross-border activity (Tucson) and limited ability to detect this activity (Spokane). GAO's observations cannot be generalized to all sectors but provide insights. This is a public version of a sensitive report that GAO issued in October 2010. Information that DHS deemed sensitive has been redacted. […] GAO is recommending that DOI and USDA determine if more guidance is needed for federal land closures, and that DHS, DOI, and USDA further implement interagency agreements. DHS, DOI, and USDA concurred with the recommendations."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2010-11-18
• Serial No. 110-73: Next Generation Border and Maritime Security Technologies: H.R. 3916, Hearing before the Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation, Committee on Science and Technology, House of Representatives, One Hundred Tenth Congress, First Session, November 15, 2007

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  "On Thursday, November 15, 2007, the Committee on Science and Technology's Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation will hold a hearing to discuss H.R. 3916 and examine the current and future priorities in border and maritime security research, development, and technology for the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T). […] The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processes approximately 1.18 million people entering the United States through established ports of entry every day. CBP is also responsible for monitoring between legal entry points along the Northern and Southern borders and intercepting individuals attempting to cross the border. Border patrol officers also act as first responders, rescuing individuals in danger from extreme weather or violent situations at illegal entry points. Surveillance technology acts as a 'force multiplier,' which allows border patrol agents to augment their patrols with ground based and aerial observation capabilities. Examples of currently in-use security technologies include infrared sensors, automated cameras, and seismic sensors to detect motion, as well as air based observational equipment to monitor a large area. Many promising technologies are still not feasible for full implementation along the border because of numerous barriers: high cost, lack of robustness in harsh conditions, lack of personnel trained to properly use high-tech equipment, and technical problems. DHS S&T has primary responsibility for bringing new technologies to full readiness, with support from other agencies such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which provides testing and validation services." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Bart Gordon, Ralph M. Hall, David Wu, Phil Gingrey, Harry E. Mitchell, Robert R. Hooks, Ervin Kapos, Brian A. Jackson, and Jeff Self.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2008
• S. Hrg. 113-537: Protecting Our Northern Border: Enhancing Collaboration and Building Local Partnerships, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Federal Programs and the Federal Workforce of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, United States Senate, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, First Session, July 12, 2013

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  This is the July 12, 2013 hearing, "Protecting Our Northern Border: Enhancing Collaboration and Building Local Partnerships," Hearing Before the Subcommittee on the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Federal Programs and the Federal Workforce of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, United States Senate. From the opening statement of Senator Tester, "When the topic of border security arises in Washington, DC, it is the Southwest border that gets most of the attention. Well, like most folks in this room, I happen to live within 100 miles of the Northern border and have my entire life. And we will continue doing all that we can to ensure that the needs up here are addressed when we start talking about border security. After all our Northern border with Canada is the longest shared border in the world, some 5,500 miles, including 545 miles in this State alone. And I do not need to tell you that, when patrolling in an area that expansive, manpower is an answer, but it is not the only answer. It is about deployment of effective technologies. It is about Federal, State, local and Canadian partners working closely and collaboratively. And today we would like to discuss some of the things that we are doing right, and we would like to identify some of our opportunities to improve the things that we can do better. After all this is just not a security issue. It is an economic issue. It is a jobs issue. And I know how much cross-border commerce means to our State and especially to this community of Havre. There's certainly a way to promote smart and effect." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Don Brostrom, Nathan Burr, Debbie Vandeberg, Kumar C. Kibble, Christopher Richards, and Robert Desrosier.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2015
• Transforming the Southern Border: Providing Security & Prosperity in the Post 9/11 World

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  "In the decades leading up to September 11, 2001, protecting U.S. land borders was not viewed as a national security issue. It was either a drug or crime or immigration problem, but not one rising to the level of national security. Accordingly, during this time, many critical problems which had been previously identified by border communities, industry groups, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), academics as well as congressional committees were largely ignored. Issues such as deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate facilities, insufficient staffing, stove-piped organizations, poor intelligence and dysfunctional immigration laws were repeatedly identified but never adequately addressed. Since 9/11, this has changed. Significant attention has once again been focused upon our borders in general, and specifically the nation's 7,000 mile-long land borders. The specter of terrorists crossing our land borders to attack our homeland is now a justifiable concern especially in light of a growing number of instances of terrorists or suspected terrorists being caught crossing our land borders. This report demonstrates that, even three years after the 9/11 attacks, our Southern Border is still porous and ripe for exploitation by terrorists seeking to enter the United States. Our national security depends on making this border more secure to prevent terrorists from entering the United States."

  United States. Congress. House. Select Committee on Homeland Security

  Turner, Jim, 1946-

  2004-09
• Shared Compromise - Future US-Mexican Border Security Initiatives

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  From the thesis abstract: "Following the passing of the unilateral Secure Fence Act of 2006 and the continuous increase of violence in the southwest border region, the U.S. and Mexican populaces highlight the lack of success and question what concrete initiatives the United States and Mexico can undertake to continue to improve the security of the border region. This paper compares the Southwest Border Initiative and the future Merida Initiative (Beyond Merida) as available options to improve border security and subsequently U.S.-Mexico relations. The paper thus illustrates the aims, cost and impact of the three major imperatives encompassed by the Southwest Borders Initiative to illustrate its applicability to current and future border security. After identifying the best future option, the author provides recommendations as the U.S. administration plans for and initiates future southwest border initiatives. Finally, the paper draws conclusions concerning options to posit that the Southwest Borders Initiative will deliver the best long-term results."

  Naval War College (U.S.)

  Cook, Brian C.

  2011-10-27
• Supply Chain Security: CBP Needs to Conduct Regular Assessments of Its Cargo Targeting System, Report to Congressional Requesters

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  "The U.S. economy is dependent on the expeditious flow of millions of tons of cargo each day. Cargo containers are an important instrument of global trade but also can present security concerns. CBP [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] is responsible for administering container security programs, and its strategy for securing maritime cargo containers includes analyzing information to identify shipments that may contain terrorist weapons or other contraband. Because CBP has insufficient resources to examine every container, targeters use ATS [Automated Targeting System] to target which container shipments should be examined. GAO [Government Accountability Office] was asked to assess CBP's targeting efforts. This report addresses (1) how ATS supports CBP's targeting of maritime cargo container shipments for national security purposes and (2) the extent to which CBP assesses the effectiveness of ATS's national security targeting rules. GAO analyzed fiscal year 2011 CBP data on shipments and containers arriving at U.S. ports and containers scanned at these ports. GAO also visited six CBP units selected on the basis of the percentage of maritime shipments that were scored as high risk or medium risk for national security purposes at these locations in fiscal year 2011, among other factors. GAO also analyzed documents, such as CBP's ATS performance measures. [...] GAO recommends that CBP (1) ensure that future updates to the weight set are based on assessments of its performance and (2) establish targets for performance measures and use those measures to regularly assess effectiveness of the weight set. DHS concurred with these recommendations."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2012-10-25
• Serial No. 113-90: Technology Needed To Secure America's Border, Joint Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Research and Technology and Subcommittee on Oversight, Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, House of Representatives, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, July 31, 2014

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  This is the July 31, 2014 hearing, "Technology Needed to Secure America's Border," before the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Subcommittee on Research and Technology and Subcommittee on Oversight. From Chairman Smith's Opening Statement: "Technology is a key component to securing our 2,000 mile Southern border. Customs and Border Protection and National Guard troops cannot be everywhere. Sensors deployed along the border can detect and track the 'coyotes' who smuggle children--as well as illegal drugs and firearms--across the border. Sensors will help Border Patrol agents know where coyotes are so that they can intercept and stop them. And ground-penetrating radar can find buried tunnels that crisscross our border. We need to get this technology in the hands of our immigration officers. Unfortunately, the Department of Homeland Security has a poor track record when it comes to developing and fielding sensors and tactical communications infrastructure along the Southwest border." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Lamar Smith, Larry Bucshon, Paul Broun, K. Jack Riley, David C. Maurer, and Joseph D. Eyerman.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2015
• Border Security: Inspections Practices, Policies, and Issues [May 26, 2004]

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  "The United States now has a unified inspections operation at the borders; a single inspector is charged with examining people, animals, plants, goods, and cargo upon entry to the country. The transfer of these functions to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) marks a significant policy shift for all of these functions, clarifying that- although there are important commercial, economic, health, humanitarian, and immigration responsibilities- ensuring the security of our borders is the top priority. The decision by DHS officials to further integrate the inspection duties so that there is 'one face at the border' now means that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspectors are essentially interchangeable and responsible for all primary inspections…Some argue that this reorganization of border inspections has been long needed and is resulting in a more streamlined and efficient set of procedures at the border with a clear, single, chain of command. Others warn that the different types of inspections are quite complex in their own right and that the reorganization is exacerbating the conflicting priorities at the border, ultimately resulting in many more people and goods being sent to secondary inspections. This report, which will not be updated, discusses a range of legal, administrative, and policy issues that are emerging with the implementation of the unified border inspections."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Wasem, Ruth Ellen; Lake, Jennifer E.; Seghetti, Lisa M.

  2004-05-26
• Southwest Border: Actions Needed to Improve DHS Processing of Families and Coordination Between DHS and HHS, Report to Congressional Requesters

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  From What GAO [Government Accountability Office] Found: "Data from the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicate that apprehensions of family unit members (noncitizen children under 18 and their parents or legal guardians) grew from about 22 percent of total southwest border apprehensions in fiscal year 2016 to about 51 percent of such apprehensions during the first two quarters of fiscal year 2019--the most current data available. During this period, CBP data indicated that most apprehensions of family units--about 76 percent--occurred between ports of entry by the U.S. Border Patrol (Border Patrol). With regard to family separations, from April 2018 through March 2019, CBP data indicate it separated at least 2,700 children from their parents, processing them as unaccompanied alien children (UAC) and transferring them to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2020-02
• From the Border to Disasters and Beyond: Critical Canine Contributions to the DHS Mission, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Efficiency of the Committee on Homeland Security, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, May 18, 2017

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  This hearing compilation is from the May 18, 2017 hearing, "From the Border to Disasters and Beyond: Critical Canine Contributions to the DHS Mission," held before the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Efficiency of the Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of Scott Perry: "DHS maintains robust canine programs with teams ranging from patrol units with the US Secret Service, explosive detection units with the Coast Guard and TSA, and Urban Search and Rescue units with FEMA. CBP [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] alone has approximately 1,500 canine teams - the largest overall canine program at DHS, with distinct mission sets including, but not limited to: tactical operations along the border, detection of narcotics, firearms, undeclared currency, and concealed persons attempting illegal entry into the U.S., and detection of undeclared agricultural products with the potential to wreak havoc on U.S. agricultural resources. [...] Canine contributions to the security of our nation are vast - along our borders, at our ports of entry, in our airports, and beyond. I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today on the important contributions of the Department's impressive and broad use of canines." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Damian Montes, Melanie Harvey, Peter Jaquez, Patrick Carrick, and Jennifer Brown.

  United States. Congress. House. Committee on Homeland Security

  2017-05-18
• Serial No. 113-78: Port of Entry Infrastructure: How Does the Federal Government Prioritize Investments? Hearing before the Subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, July 16, 2014

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  This is the July 16, 2014 hearing on "Port of Entry Infrastructure: How Does the Federal Government Prioritize Investments?" held before the House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Border and Maritime Security. This hearing focuses on the budgetary priorities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. From the opening statement of Chairman Miller: "Our Nation relies on the efficient flow of commerce across our border, and it is the job of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to not only facilitate commerce, but to also secure the homeland. To accomplish this mission, sufficient port of entry infrastructure is needed along with robust Customs and Border Protection staffing." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: John Wagner, Michael Gelber and Oscar Leeser.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2015
• Ensuring the Security of America's Borders through the Use of Biometric Passports and other Identity Documents, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, First Session, June 22, 2005

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  The purpose of this hearing is to examine the potential of using biometric passports and other identity documents as a way of ensuring the security of America's borders. Subcommittee Chairman Senator Daniel E. Lundgren made the following remarks in his opening statement, "The purpose of today's hearing is to examine the current and future use of biometric technology in travel documents. The issues of document integrity and identity verification are key to our national efforts to enhance border security and combat terrorist travel. Today's hearing provides an opportunity to examine progress made in this area by reviewing two recent announcements by the Department of Homeland Security: Number one, the changes in the passport requirements for Visa Waiver Program travelers and, two, the pilot program to test the use of contact with chips in passports." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Daniel E. Lundgren, Loretta Sanchez, Christopher Cox, Bennie G. Thompson, Donna M. Christensen, Norman D. Dicks, James R. Langevin, John Linder, Zoe Lofgren, Stevan Pearce, Elaine Dezenski, Frank Moss, Martin Herman, C. Stewart Verdery, and Gregory Wilshusen.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2005
• Serial No. 108-14: The Department of Homeland Security's Security Initiatives to Secure America's Borders: Hearing before the Select Committee on Homeland Security, House of House of Representatives, One Hundred Eighth Congress, First Session, June 25, 2003

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  From the opening statement of Jennifer Dunn: "The committee is meeting today to hear testimony assessing the Department of Homeland Security's initiatives to secure America's borders... Considering the complexity of America's ports, the long stretch of its borders, and the vast expanse of our critical infrastructure, one might simply ask our witness, where do we begin? The fact is, however, that the department has made significant progress on all these fronts, and we look forward to hearing about that progress this afternoon. It is also true that we have a lot more progress to make in the months and years ahead, and we also want to hear today about the department's plans to further enhance America's security. Internationally, we have been pushing our first line of defense overseas by placing customs agents in foreign ports to screen and inspect cargo before it arrives on our shores. Additionally, we are working with the private sector to ensure that all high-risk air cargo is screened before it is placed on the airplane bound for the United States." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Christopher Cox, Robert E. Andrews, Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Dave Camp, Jennifer Christensen, Norman D. Dicks, Jennifer Dunn, Bob Etheridge, Barney Frank, Jim Gibbons, Bob Goodlatte, Asa Hutchinson, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Zoe Lofgren, Edward J. Markey, Karen McCarthy, Kendrick B. Meek, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Loretta Sanchez, Christopher Shays, Mark E. Souder, John E. Sweeny, and Jim Turner.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2004
• Homeland Security Advisory Council: Southwest Border Task Force Recommendations

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  "The Southwest Border Task Force (SWBTF) was chartered to provide the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) with recommendations to address issues facing the Southwest border. The Task Force convened in Albuquerque, NM in June 2009 and in El Paso, TX in August 2009, interspersed with conference calls, to address two important border issues. Led by Chairman Judge William Webster and Vice Chairs Ambassador Jim Jones and Sheriff Lupe Trevino, the Task Force divided the issues into two categories: commerce and border violence. Led by Ambassador Jones, the Commerce Subgroup developed a wide array of recommendations on how to maintain, increase, and ease the flow of commerce across the Southwest border. They call for the standardization of practices and technology at all ports of entry (POE); the creation of a 'best practices' team to study both the Mexican and Canadian borders; enhancing the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism; improving infrastructure and technology at POE; reviewing the Presidential permitting process; increasing funding for, and the hiring of, more Customs and Border Protection Officers at POE; and adopting Environmental Protection Agency requirements for drayage trucks. Sheriff Trevino and the Border Violence Subgroup members focused on recommendations to decrease border violence."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2009-09