H.R.3464 - State Border Security Assistance Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3464, the State Border Security Assistance Act, aims to establish two funds: the State Border Security Reinforcement Fund and the State Criminal Alien Prosecution and Detention Fund. These funds would be used to provide grants to eligible states, state agencies, and local governments for specific border security and criminal alien prosecution purposes. The bill allocates significant funding for these initiatives, with $11 billion for border security and $3.5 billion for criminal alien prosecution and detention.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to increased funding for border security measures, including border wall construction and enhanced surveillance. It would also bolster state and local efforts to prosecute and detain aliens who have committed crimes. The funds would be available for expenditures made on or after January 20, 2021, and the funds would terminate on January 20, 2029.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced border security through infrastructure and technology.
- Increased resources for state and local law enforcement to address criminal activity related to illegal immigration.
- Potential reduction in crime rates in border areas.
- Support for National Guard units involved in border security operations.
- Funding for relocation of aliens from small population centers.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Significant financial cost to taxpayers, with $14.5 billion allocated.
- Potential for misuse of funds by state and local entities.
- Possible negative impact on relations with neighboring countries.
- Concerns about the environmental impact of border wall construction.
- Potential for increased discrimination and profiling based on immigration status.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate immigration and naturalization, supporting the federal government's role in border security. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, raising questions about the extent to which the federal government can direct state and local law enforcement activities. The Fourth Amendment's protections against unreasonable searches and seizures could be implicated by increased surveillance and detention efforts.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).