Bipartisan bill aims at advancing U.S. border security through innovative technology

Congressmen Morgan Luttrell and Lou Correa have re-introduced the bipartisan Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act. This legislation mandates that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) submit a comprehensive plan to Congress, aimed at identifying, integrating, and deploying advanced technologies to enhance border security operations.

The introduction of this bill follows DHS's announcement last year of its "Artificial Intelligence Roadmap." The roadmap outlines DHS's plans for 2024, which include testing technologies that provide benefits to the American public while ensuring privacy and civil liberties are protected.

"As cartels and foreign adversaries grow more sophisticated, the United States must deploy the latest and most advanced technology to disrupt these threats," said Congressman Luttrell. "I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Correa to enhance the ongoing efforts from President Trump, Border Czar Tom Homan, and Secretary Noem to strengthen our border security. I’ll continue fighting for effective solutions that safeguard our country and enforce our laws."

"Our newest cutting edge technologies need to be deployed to give our hard-working officers the tools they need to keep us safe," stated Congressman Correa. "With this bipartisan effort, Congress will better understand how our officers can use new technology to stop smugglers, as well as identify and respond when migrants are crossing in remote and deadly conditions, and come to their aid."

The Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act specifically requires:

- The Secretary of Homeland Security must submit a comprehensive plan within 180 days for identifying, integrating, and deploying new technologies into border security operations.

- Authorization for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Innovation Teams to research commercial technologies that address capability gaps or urgent mission needs.

- Each CBP Innovation Team must establish operating procedures clarifying roles within such teams concerning DHS partners as well as protocols for transitioning technologies into programs.