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• 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
• 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
• 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
• 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
• Serial No. 108-70: Impact of the Drug Trade on Border Security: Hearing before the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, Drug Policy and Human Resources of the Committee on Government Reform, House of Representatives, One Hundred Eighth Congress, First Session, April 15, 2003

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  On April 15, 2003, the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, Drug Policy and Human Resources of the Committee on Government Reform holds a hearing regarding the Drug Trade on Border Security. Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Paul Beeson of the U.S. Border Patrol; Frank Dekert of the National Park Service; Sandalio Gonzalez Drug Enforcement Administration; David Longoria of the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection; Bob Cook of the Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce; Ruben Garcia of the Ysleta Independent School District; Jose Luis Soria of the Aliviane Drug Treatment Center; Carlos Leon of the El Paso Police Department; and Leo Samaneigo of the El Paso Police Department. Chairman Mark Sonder explains that, "Since the summer of 2001, this subcommittee has been making a comprehensive study of our Nation's borders. The subcommittee has focused particular attention on the effectiveness of the Federal law enforcement agencies entrusted with protecting and administering our Nation's borders and ports of entry." He adds that "Today's hearing is intended to focus on the problem of illegal drug smuggling along the southern border, and the related crime and damage caused by that smuggling. The southern border still sees far more illegal activity than the northern border and it presents severe challenges for effective law enforcement. The southern border runs through deserts, mountains and rivers, through unpopulated areas as well as cities and suburbs, through National Parks, wildlife refuges, Native American reservations, and even military bases. Questions of overlapping law enforcement agency jurisdiction can come into play, and we intend to address those issues today."

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2003-04-15
• Border Security: CBP's Response to COVID-19, Report to Congressional Committees

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  From the Highlights: "The COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] pandemic impacted nearly all aspects of society, including travel to and from the U.S. In response to COVID-19, the administration issued executive actions with the intention of decreasing the number of individuals entering the U.S. and reducing transmission of the virus. Within CBP [Customs and Border Protection], OFO [Office of Field Operations] is responsible for implementing these actions at ports of entry through which travelers enter the U.S., and Border Patrol is responsible for patrolling the areas between ports of entry to prevent individuals and goods from entering the U.S. illegally. Based on their role in facilitating legitimate travel and trade and securing the borders, CBP employees risk exposure to COVID-19 in the line of duty. GAO [Government Accountability Office] was asked to review how CBP managed its field operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This report describes: (1) available data on the number of CBP employees diagnosed with COVID-19 and unable to work; (2) actions CBP has taken related to protecting its workforce and the public from COVID-19; and (3) the extent to which CBP adjusted operations in response to the pandemic and related travel restrictions."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2021-06
• Effects of Border Insecurity and Lax Immigration Enforcement on American Communities, Hearing Before the Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs, United States Senate, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, March 1, 2017

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  This testimony compilation made by the HSDL staff is from the March 1, 2017 hearing, "The Effects of Border Insecurity and Lax Immigration Enforcement on American Communities," before the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs. The purpose of this hearing was to discuss the effects of border insecurity and lax immigration enforcement on American communities. From the opening statement of Committee Chairman Ron Johnson, "[this hearing] will examine how our porous southwest border affects American communities thousands of miles away […] America's borders are not secure. To truly secure our borders, the United States must identify and eliminate the incentives for illegal immigration. Our failure to do so can have tragic consequences. […] Border security and immigration laws are not just a concern for communities along the border. They affect all Americans." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Julie Nordman, Eric Severson, and Ryan Rectenwald.

  United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

  2017-03-01
• Secure Border Initiative (SBI) Presentation

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  This document is a presentation outlining the Secure Border Initiative (SBI). It includes a number of charts detailing the number of apprehensions at border crossings and removal totals. "The SBI is a comprehensive multi-year plan to secure Americas borders and reduce illegal migration. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff has announced an overall vision for the SBI which includes: More agents to patrol our borders, secure our ports of entry and enforce immigration laws; Expanded detention and removal capabilities to eliminate 'catch and release' once and for all; A comprehensive and systemic upgrading of the technology used in controlling the border, including increased manned aerial assets, expanded use of UAVs, and next-generation detection technology; Increased investment in infrastructure improvements at the border - providing additional physical security to sharply reduce illegal border crossings; and Greatly increased interior enforcement of our immigration laws - including more robust worksite enforcement."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2005
• Serial No. 109-60: How Can Technologies Help Secure Our Borders? Hearing before the Committee on Science, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, Second Session, September 13, 2006

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  From the opening statement of committee chairman Sherwood L. Boehlert, "One of the Directorate's most important areas of responsibility is the subject of today's hearing: border security. There are many aspects of border security, a hot topic right now, but one essential aspect is certainly how to successfully deploy technology to help prevent or thwart illegal border crossings. My sense is that we haven't done a very good job of that so far. We haven't methodically thought through what technology to develop, how to deploy it, and how to integrate it with the people who will actually be apprehending those trying to cross the border illegally. We haven't come up with a clear, adequately funded plan to conduct the research needed to improve existing technologies and create new ones. And in Congress, we haven't thought comprehensively about border security, instead focusing on massive public works projects, like border fences. Hopefully, the Secure Border Initiative the Department of Homeland Security is in the process of implementing will start us down a more thoughtful and successful path." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Sherwood L. Boehlert, Bart Gordon, Jerry F. Costello, Darlene Hooley, Lincoln Davis, Jay M. Cohen, Gordon Daniel Tyler, Jr., Peter R. Worch, Gervasio Prado and Gregory J. Pottie.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2006
• Evaluation of the United States Military Support of Department of Homeland Security Southern Border Security Operations Under Title 10 Authority [Redacted]

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  From the Objective: "The objectives of this evaluation focused on the use of DoD title 10 personnel supporting Department of Homeland Security (DHS) southern border security operations. Specifically, we determined whether the: [1] use of DoD title 10 personnel to support DHS southern border security operations was authorized by Federal laws and consistent with DoD policies; [2] DoD's support of DHS southern border security operations complied with applicable Federal laws and was consistent with DoD policies; [3] DoD title 10 personnel supporting the DHS were provided adequate training consistent with Federal laws and DoD policies on the Standing Rules for the Use of Force (SRUF) and on potential reaction to contact with civilians or migrants; and [4] use of DoD funds for DoD title 10 support to DHS southern border security operations complied with applicable Federal laws and DoD policies."

  United States. Department of Defense. Office of the Inspector General

  2020-08-14
• Fencing the Border: Construction Options and Strategic Placement, Joint Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity of the Committee on Homeland Security, with the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, Drug Policy, and Human Resources of the Committee on Government Reform, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, Second Session, July 20, 2006

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  From the opening statement of Mark E. Souder: "Good afternoon and thank you all for coming today for our hearing on Fencing the Border: Construction Options and Strategic Placement. I would like to thank chairman Dan Lungren of the Subcommittee of Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection and Cybersecurity for sponsoring this very important joint hearing. This represents our first formal inquiry into this pressing subject. It is vital that we approach it as seriously and thoughtfully as we can. Though the question of whether we should have more border fencing has occasionally generated more heat than light, the fact is that this proposition is more or less settled in Congress. The immigration bills passed by both Houses call for a substantial expansion of fencing, at least 380 miles in the Senate bill and at least 700 miles in the House bill. So in our hearing today we seek to move beyond the question of whether to expand the fence and on to question of what kind of fencing, where should it go, what kind of challenges we should anticipate, and so forth. While many are understandably impatient to secure our very porous southwest border, the fact is that we don't get many chances to do it right, and we had better be prepared in this as thoroughly as possible. To do that, many questions have to be asked and many obstacles have to be foreseen and overcome. Through this hearing, we seek to make a significant step forward in that process." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Mark E. Souder, Daniel E. Lungren, Loretta Sanchez, Elijah E. Cummings, Norman D. Dicks, Duncan Hunter, Silvestre Reyes, Steven Pearce, Kevin Stevens, Douglas Barnhart, T.J. Bonner, Steve King, Carlton Mann, Art Mayne, Don Williams, and Ginny Brown-Waite.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009
• Border and Transportation Security: Overview of Congressional Issues [Updated April 7, 2005]

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  From the Summary: "Enhancing border and transportation security (BTS) are essential strategies for improving and maintaining homeland security. Border security entails regulating the flow of traffic across the nations borders so that dangerous and unwanted goods and people are detected and denied entry. This requires a sophisticated border management system that balances the need for securing the nations borders with facilitating the essential free flow of legitimate commerce, citizens, and authorized visitors. Transportation security involves securing the flow of people and goods along the nations highways, railways, airways, and waterways. (For more information on the complexity of the BTS challenge, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RL32839, 'Border and Transportation Security: the Complexity of the Challenge,' by Jennifer E. Lake.) While in the immediate aftermath of 9/11 efforts primarily concentrated on an expanded federal role in aviation security (in particular on the heightened screening of passengers and baggage), increasingly attention is being turned towards other modes of transportation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Lake, Jennifer E.

  2005-04-07
• Migration and Border Security: The Military's Role

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  "In the United States, law enforcement and diplomatic instruments lead the migration and border security effort. The DHS's U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the principal federal law enforcement agency charged with enforcing agriculture, trade, drug and immigration regulations. They operate in all three border environments -- land, sea, and air -- within North America and internationally with cooperating governments. This effort is complemented by the U.S. Department of State's (DoS) 'Border Security Program.' Through proactive efforts in its embassies and consulates, DoS has improved information sharing, connectivity, and training to identify and prevent foreigners bent on doing harm from acquiring travel documents allowing them legal entry to the United States.5 The military's mission to defend U.S. borders from aggressors is principally accomplished through terrorist deterrence, detection, and interdiction before they reach the United States. However, events since 9/11 have led to the deployment of military forces to temporarily supplement and complement the CBP. Such was the case immediately following 9/11, when 1600 National Guard troops were federalized for duty on our northern and southern borders. Again, in 2004 following the intelligence community's assessment of a heightened threat along the northern border between Vermont, New Hampshire and New York, active duty and reserve component forces were deployed along those borders in the execution of Operation Winter Freeze. That augmentation took place between the federal election day and the presidential inauguration."

  Army War College (U.S.). Center for Strategic Leadership

  Griffard, Bernard F.; Tussing, Bert B.
• Border Security: Key Unresolved Issues Justify Reevaluation of Border Surveillance Technology Program, Report to Congressional Committees

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  "In September 2004, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) established Americas Shield Initiative (ASI)- a program that included a system of sensors, cameras, and databases formerly known as the Integrated Surveillance Intelligence System (ISIS)- to detect, characterize, and deter illegal breaches to the northern and southern U.S. borders. The goals of the ASI program were to address ISIS capability limitations and support the departments antiterrorism mission. In April 2005, department officials told GAO [Government Accountability Office] that ISIS was subsumed within ASI. By congressional mandate, GAO reviewed the program to determine (1) the operational needs that ASI was intended to address and DHSs plans for ASI, (2) the steps that DHS had taken to ensure that ASI was aligned with the departments enterprise architecture, and (3) the actions that DHS had taken to establish the capability to effectively manage ASI."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2006-02-22
• Executive Proclamation Designating The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks a National Monument: Implications for Border Security, Hearing Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Efficiency, One Hundred Thirteenth Congress, Second Session, July 10, 2014

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  This hearing testimony is from the July 10, 2014 hearing on "Executive Proclamation Designating The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks a National Monument: Implications for Border Security" held before the House Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of Jeff Duncan: "On May 21, 2014, President Obama designated the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks area in southern New Mexico as a National Monument. The President's action ignored legislation introduced in both chambers of Congress, which had buy-in and support from a broad coalition of state and local stakeholders and constituencies. […] Instead of allowing the legislative process to proceed, the President ignored the concerns of state and local law enforcement, ranchers, sportsmen, and others and chose to designate the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks area a monument with the stroke of a pen. Due to the President's designation, the U.S. Border Patrol, as well as, state and local law enforcement officers will be prevented from having full access to nearly 500,000 acres of land near the Mexican border. The Border Patrol must now comply with the requirements of several federal land management laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Wilderness Act, and Endangered Species Act--some of which will limit access to the monument except for on-foot or horseback. […] As a result, this newly designated national monument is practically an invitation to drug-runners and human smugglers, as if they even needed one. And I have not even mentioned the possibility that those who would seek to harm us including vicious drug cartels, transnational gangs, and terrorist groups like Hezbollah or others could try to breach our sovereignty in order to carry out possibly heinous acts. It's critical for Border Patrol and state and local law enforcement to work together to determine how they will reduce the likelihood that this area becomes a sanctuary for these groups." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Stevan Pearce, Brandon Judd, Todd Garrison, and Marc R. Rosenblum.

  United States. Congress. House. Committee on Homeland Security

  2014-07-10
• On the Border and in the Line of Fire: U.S. Law Enforcement, Homeland Security, and Drug Cartel Violence, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Management of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, First Session, May 11, 2011

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  From the opening statement of Michael T. McCaul: "Today, we examine the U.S. side of the border. It is necessary to provide a realistic security assessment as determined by local and State law enforcement, and accurately measure the level of crime in our border communities related to cartel activities. In March, our Secretary of Homeland Security said that the border is better now than it has ever been. Many officials who are directly in the line of fire, such as Captain Bob Bullock of the Texas Rangers, disagree with the Secretary. We heard last week from Sheriff Dever in Arizona, stating he disagreed. Of course there is violence along the border. There is a spillover of crime and intimidation. Since January 2010, the Texas Department of Public Safety has identified at least 22 murders, 24 assaults, 15 shootings, five kidnappings directly related to this spillover. This past Sunday, there was a gun battle between Mexican marines and drug smugglers on Falcon Lake, which straddles the border, killing 13 people." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Michael T. McCaul, William R. Keating, Bennie G. Thompson, Grayling G. Williams, Amy E. Pope, Steven C. McCraw, Thomas C. Horne, Sigifredo Gonzalez, Jr., and Victor Rodriguez.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2012
• S. Hrg. 110-20; Serial No. J-110-6: U.S.-Visit: Challenges and Strategies for Securing the U.S. Border: Hearing before the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Technology and Homeland Security of the Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, One Hundred Tenth Congress, First Session, January 31, 2007

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  From the opening statement of Dianne Feinstein: "The Subcommittee today will be dealing with a program that is not without its controversy, namely, the US-VISIT Program. I have long been very concerned about the interplay between immigration and national security. I believe that we will not be able to protect our Nation effectively until we can protect our borders. I do believe we need to know who is coming in and out of our country. The congressional mandate to create a system for tracking who enters and leaves this country was first codified in 1996 with a deadline of establishing a workable program by September 30, 1998. To the best of my knowledge, that is 8 years ago. Since that time, Congress has extended the deadline over and over. Time and time again, we have sacrificed our border security because of inaction or slow action by the Federal Government. According to the 9/11 National Commission Staff Report on Terrorist Travel, prior to 9/11, no agency of the U.S. Government thought of border security as a tool in the counterterrorism arsenal. 9/11 and its subsequent actions have made this goal a priority and have exposed our country's vulnerability. Yet over 5 years later, the Federal Government has failed to devote sufficient time, technology, personnel, and resources to making border security a cornerstone of our national security policy." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: John Cornyn, Dianne Feinstein, Edward M. Kennedy, Richard C. Barth, Phillip J. Bond. Robert A. Mocny, Richard M. Stana, C. Stewart Verdery, Greg Clawson, and Rey Koslowski.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2007
• Observations on Efforts to Implement the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative on the U.S. Border with Canada, Report to the Ranking Minority Member, Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives

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  "Securing the U.S. border has received increasing attention since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. For years, U.S. and Canadian citizens have crossed the northern border using documents such as driver's licenses or birth certificates or in some cases without showing any documentation. Border crossings are commonplace; in 2005, for example, an estimated 13 million U.S. citizens crossed the northern border. In the heightened national security environment after September 11, we have previously reported that documents like driver's licenses and birth certificates can easily be obtained, altered, or counterfeited and used by terrorists to travel into and out of the country. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 requires the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to develop and implement a plan that requires a passport or other document or combination of documents that the Secretary of Homeland Security deems sufficient to show identity and citizenship for U.S. citizens and citizens of Bermuda, Canada, and Mexico when entering the United States from certain countries in North, Central, or South America. The act requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State (State) to implement this requirement by January 2008, and the effort to do so is called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (Travel Initiative)."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2006-05-25
• Statement by Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano on the Border Security Amendment Proposed in the Senate [June 21, 2013]

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  On June 21, 2013, the Department of Homeland Security issued the following press release: "'The President has made clear that commonsense immigration reform legislation must include measures to strengthen border security, create a path to earned citizenship, crack down on employers that hire undocumented workers, and streamline our legal immigration system so everyone is playing by the same set of rules. The border security amendment agreed to by a bipartisan group of Senators is in line with that criteria, it will devote important additional resources to the robust border security system this Administration has put in place and strengthen what was already an unmatched piece of border security legislation.'"

  United States. Department of Homeland Security. Press Office

  2013-06-21
• Serial No. 114-155: Potential Terrorist Threats: Border Security Challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, Second Session, March 22, 2016

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  This is the March 22, 2016 hearing on "Potential Terrorist Threats: Border Security Challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean" held before the House Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere. From the testimony of Juan Gonzalez: "Now effective border management in Latin America and the Caribbean is vital to our economic prosperity and national security. Throughout the hemisphere, we are working with governments to eliminate trade barriers, integrate electricity grids and energy markets, connect national infrastructures, and cement commercial relationships. As evidence, I offer that our trillion dollar trade relationship and over 3 million American jobs, supported by our economic relationship with Canada and Mexico, demonstrate what is possible when governments collaborate actively. At the same time that we are using our border cooperation to promote prosperity, we are equally determined to use them to safeguard the homeland and to ensure safe, legal, and orderly migration to the United States. Border security was a focus of the recent Canada state visit. We always share travel information with Canada, including our respective no-fly lists. And the President and Prime Minister Trudeau used their meeting to discuss what more we can do to secure our borders while actively promoting commerce. We are also working with Mexico on border enforcement at both its northern and southern border to regulate migration, combat smuggling, and target narco-traffickers and our counterterrorism cooperation with Mexico is excellent." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Juan Gonzalez, Alan D. Bersin, and Lev Kubiak.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2016
• Department of Homeland Security Border Wall Plan Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 10142

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  From the Purpose: "On January 20, 2021, President Biden issued Proclamation 10142, 'Termination of Emergency with Respect to the Southern Border of the United States and Redirection of Funds Diverted to Border Wall Construction' (the Proclamation). The Proclamation directed a pause in the construction of the southern border wall and on the obligation of funds for such construction projects to allow the Department of Homeland Security (DHS or the Department) and the Department of Defense (DoD) to: (1) assess the legality of the funding and contracting methods used to construct the wall; (2) assess the administrative and contractual consequences of ceasing each wall construction project; and, (3) develop a plan for redirecting funds and repurposing contracts as appropriate and consistent with applicable law. DHS has, without deobligating funds, suspended performance of all border barrier contracts and southwest border barrier construction activities, with the exception of activities related to ensuring project sites are safe and secure in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contracts. DHS has also completed the required assessments. This memorandum outlines DHS's Plan pursuant to section 2 of the Proclamation for the redirection of funds appropriated or received from the Treasury Forfeiture Funds (TFF) for the construction of a border barrier at the southern border of the United States."

  United States. Department of Homeland Security

  2021-06-09
• Serial No. 114-12: Interior Immigration Enforcement Legislation, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security of the Committee on the Judiciary, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, First Session, February 11, 2014

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  This is the February 11, 2014 hearing on "Interior Immigration Enforcement Legislation," held before the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security of the Committee on the Judiciary. From the opening statement: "The consensus in our country is that the current immigration system is broken, unworkable and not functioning for the best interests of our fellow citizens, and part of that is the widely held belief among our fellow citizens that our borders are insufficiently secured and frankly border security is much broader than simply a negotiating item in an ongoing immigration debate. Border security is part of what defines a sovereign nation; the ability to control who comes and goes and provide assurances that national security is indeed the preeminent function of the Federal Government. But even the most secured of borders will not alleviate the need for further reforms and off repeated statistics bears mentioning again, which is that around 40 percent of those who are not in the country lawfully originally entered through lawful means. Simply put, around 40 percent of the undocumented population were invited here and overstayed their invitation. And, no fence can be designed or built to deal with the issue of internal security. We must also ensure the laws governing immigrants within our borders are being implemented." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Sam S. Page, Frank L. Morris, Walter D. Cadman, and Gerald F. Kicanas.

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2015
• DHS Announces Long-Term Border and Immigration Strategy [November 2, 2005]

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  In this press release, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announces a comprehensive multi-year plan to secure America's borders and reduce illegal migration, entitled the Secure Border Initiative (SBI). Since the events of 9/11, President Bush has placed ever-increasing importance on immigration control, including border security, and has devoted significant resources to the stark challenge of illegal migration. Every day, DHS agencies take significant steps to secure our borders and enforce immigration laws. DHS currently has more than 11,000 Border Patrol agents along nearly 7,000 miles of northern and southern border, an increase of 15 percent over 9/11 levels. An additional 18,000 officers are posted at our Ports of Entry (POE), and over 8,000 agents and officers are working to apprehend criminals, absconders, and other individuals illegally in the United States.

  United States. Department of Homeland Security. Press Office

  2005-11-02
• Using Automatic Identification System Technology to Improve Maritime Border Security

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  From the thesis abstract: "Our coastal waters are the United States' most open and vulnerable borders. This vast maritime domain harbors critical threats from terrorism, criminal activities, and natural disasters. Maritime borders pose significant security challenges, as nefarious entities have used small boats to conduct illegal activities for years, and they continue to do so today. Illegal drugs, money, weapons, and migrants flow both directions across our maritime borders, as vessels can quickly complete these transits without detection. To what extent could Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology improve border security against the small vessel threat? This thesis provides an overview of existing AIS systems and reviews the maritime border security effectiveness and cost benefit impacts of potential AIS equipment carriage requirements. We compared and analyzed policy options and reviewed implementation issues and concerns. Our conclusions are that the Department of Homeland Security should implement a regulation for all vessels, regardless of size, to install and broadcast Class A or Class B AIS when conducting international voyages. The proposed regulation would expand the existing Small Vessel Reporting System to a mandatory program wherein mariners are required to preregister and file float plans prior to conducting an international voyage. This proposed action provides direct support to three of the five basic homeland security missions: prevent terrorism and enhance security, secure and manage our borders, and enforce and administer our immigration laws."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Lindstrom, Tedric R.

  2014-12
• Border Security: Actions Needed by DHS to Address Long-Standing Challenges in Planning for a Biometric Exit System, Statement of Rebecca Gambler, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, Testimony Before the Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest, Committee on the Judiciary, U.S. Senate

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  "Each year, millions of visitors come to the United States legally on a temporary basis. Overstays are individuals who were admitted legally on a temporary basis but then overstayed their authorized periods of admission. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 required the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a plan to accelerate implementation of a biometric entry and exit data system that matches information provided by foreign nationals upon their arrival and departure. Since 2004, DHS has tracked foreign nationals' entries into the United States, and since December 2006, a biometric entry capability has been fully operational at all ports of entry. However, GAO [Government Accountability Office] has identified a range of challenges that DHS has faced in its efforts to deploy a corresponding biometric exit capability. DHS's CBP [U.S. Customs and Border Protection] is primarily responsible for implementing a biometric exit program. This statement discusses the extent to which DHS has made progress in developing a biometric exit system and reporting overstay estimates. This statement is based on a report GAO issued in July 2013 (GAO-13-683), with selected updates conducted in January 2016 to obtain information from DHS on actions it has taken to address prior recommendations. GAO previously made recommendations to DHS to establish time frames and milestones for a biometric air exit evaluation framework and assess the reliability of its overstay data. DHS concurred with the recommendations, and has actions underway to address them."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2016-01-20
• Cargo Security at Land Ports of Entry: Are We Meeting the Challenge? Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global Terrorism of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, First Session, October 22, 2009

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  From the opening statement of Loretta Sanchez: "Today's hearing will examine cargo security at our land ports along entries on our northern and southern border. This subcommittee is focused on reviewing the growing challenge the Department of Homeland Security faces in identifying, interdicting and investigating cargo security threats. To put the challenge we face at land ports of entry into perspective, let's think about it this way. There are over 160 land border crossings between the northern and southern borders; 43 of these crossings are dedicated to commercial use only, and many of those are operated and staffed 24 hours a day. Over 11 million truckloads and 2 million railcars come through those ports annually, contributing to over $338 billion dollars and $109 billion worth of imports respectively." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Loretta Sanchez, Subcommittee Chairwoman (D-CA); Mark E. Souder, Representative (R-IN); Bennie G. Thompson, Committee Chairman (D-MS); Todd Owen, Executive Director, Cargo and Conveyance Security, Office of Field Operations, Customs and Border Protection; Janice Ayala, Deputy Assistant Director, Office of Investigations, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement; Colleen M. Kelly, National President, National Treasury Employees Union; and Stephen Russell, Chairman and CEO, Celadon Group, Inc.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2010
• Serial No. 109-4: CBP and ICE: Does the Current Organizational Structure Best Serve U.S. Homeland Security Interests? Hearing before the Subcommittee on Management, Integration, and Oversight of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Ninth Congress, March 9, 2005

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  From the opening statement of Mike Rogers: "The purpose of today's hearing will focus on one of the most important management challenges facing the Department and involves one of the most important functions, protecting our borders and enforcing our immigration and customs laws. The Border and Transportation Security Directorate, or BTS, of the Department of Homeland Security is divided into two now separate bureaus, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. In particular, we will explore whether the current Division of Border Security, within CBP, and Immigration and Customs investigations, within ICE, is the best way to structure these important functions or if the separation has caused more operational, administrative, and budgetary problems that negatively impact the Homeland Security missions of these agencies." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Mike Rogers, Kendrick B. Meek, Christopher Cox, Bennie G. Thompson, Donna Christensen, Charles W. Dent, Katherine Harris, Michael McCaul, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Dave G. Reichert, Christopher Shays, T.J. Bonner, Randy Allen Callahan, James Carafanono, Michael Cutler, Kenneth C. Klug, David Venturella, and Sheila Jackson-Lee.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2005
• S. Rept. 115-179: Border Enforcement Security Task Force Reauthorization Act of 2017, Report of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, United States Senate, to Accompany S. 1199, October 30, 2017

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  From Purpose and Summary: "The purpose of S. 1199, the Border Enforcement Security Task Force Reauthorization Act of 2017, is to reauthorize the Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) program, which is responsible for investigating, disrupting, and collecting intelligence on transnational criminal organizations (TCO) at the U.S. border. Although the BEST program is successful, its current structure is not adequate to address the changing border security landscape. Modernizing the BEST program provides frontline law enforcement agents with the proper tools to effectively adapt to new criminal activity trends and drug trafficking patterns. This bill also updates the BEST program by requiring each maritime unit to include a U. S. Coast Guard (USCG) employee. It extends the reporting requirements by five years and requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS or the Department) Secretary to report on the effectiveness of the BEST program's efforts to combat TCOs, its cooperation with stakeholders, and its integration with Joint Task Force Operations on an annual basis. Finally, the bill modernizes the Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) overseas pay system. Specifically, S. 1199 authorizes the Director of ICE to provide danger pay for law enforcement officers serving in dangerous locations outside the United States. By providing this authority, Congress is ensuring that ICE agents have pay parity with their Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) law enforcement counterparts serving in similar environments."

  United States. Government Publishing Office

  2017-10-30