H.R.4213 - Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 4213, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for 2026, allocates funds for various DHS operations, including border security, cybersecurity, disaster relief, and immigration services. The bill outlines specific funding levels for different agencies and programs within DHS, with a focus on departmental management, security enforcement, protection, preparedness, and research and development. It also includes administrative provisions that govern how the funds can be used and transferred.
The act addresses key areas such as Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Coast Guard. Furthermore, it sets guidelines for grant programs, disaster relief efforts, and cybersecurity initiatives. The bill also includes provisions related to immigration enforcement, such as restrictions on the use of funds for certain activities and limitations on the admission of aliens under specific circumstances.
Overall, the bill aims to provide the necessary resources for DHS to carry out its mission of protecting the United States from various threats while also ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of taxpayer dollars.
Expected Effects
This act will provide funding for the Department of Homeland Security's operations through September 30, 2026. It will influence the level of security at borders and airports, the speed and efficacy of disaster response, and the enforcement of immigration laws. The specific allocations and restrictions will shape the priorities and activities of DHS agencies.
Potential Benefits 3/5
- Enhanced border security through investments in technology and personnel.
- Improved cybersecurity infrastructure and threat response capabilities.
- Increased preparedness for and response to natural disasters and other emergencies.
- Support for law enforcement training and accreditation.
- Funding for programs aimed at combating human trafficking and intellectual property rights violations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Restrictions on certain immigration-related activities may lead to increased backlogs and delays.
- Potential limitations on individual liberties and privacy due to increased surveillance and data collection.
- The allocation of funds may not align with the most pressing needs or priorities of local communities.
- Some provisions could be interpreted as discriminatory or biased against certain groups.
- Increased spending on security measures may come at the expense of other important social programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 3/5
The act's alignment with the Constitution is mixed. While providing for national security and border protection aligns with the federal government's enumerated powers, certain provisions related to immigration and individual liberties may raise concerns under the First, Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments. Specifically, sections restricting the admission of aliens based on certain criteria could be challenged as discriminatory.
Additionally, provisions related to surveillance and data collection may implicate Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. The act also contains sections affirming religious freedom, which aligns with the First Amendment. The balance between national security and individual rights will likely be a subject of ongoing debate and judicial review.
Ultimately, the constitutionality of the act will depend on how its provisions are interpreted and applied in practice, and whether they are found to be consistent with the fundamental rights and principles enshrined in the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).