H.R.993 - Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 993, the Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act, mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a plan for identifying, integrating, and deploying new technologies to enhance border security. This plan will be submitted to the House and Senate Homeland Security Committees. The Act also authorizes the Commissioner of CBP to maintain Innovation Teams to research and adapt commercial technologies for border security operations.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to modernize border security through the use of advanced technologies, including AI, machine learning, and various sensor technologies. This will likely lead to increased investment in these technologies and a potential shift in CBP's operational strategies. The Act also emphasizes coordination between CBP, the DHS Science and Technology Directorate, and the private sector.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced border security through the deployment of advanced technologies.
- Potential for increased efficiency and effectiveness of CBP operations.
- Encouragement of innovation and development of new technologies for border security.
- Improved coordination between government agencies and the private sector.
- Identification and replacement of outdated border security technologies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to the use of advanced surveillance technologies.
- Risk of increased costs associated with the development and deployment of new technologies.
- Possible negative impact on border communities due to increased surveillance.
- Uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of new technologies in addressing border security challenges.
- Potential for mission creep if technologies are used beyond their intended purpose.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's focus on border security aligns with the federal government's responsibility to provide for the common defense, as outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution. However, the implementation of new technologies, particularly those involving surveillance, must be carefully considered to ensure compliance with the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Act's requirement for an assessment of the privacy impact on border communities is a positive step in addressing these concerns.
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).