BARRIER Act of 2024 Blocking Assistance and Resources to Restrict Illegal Entry and Residency Act of 2024
Impact
If enacted, the BARRIER Act would significantly alter the landscape for organizations involved in immigrant assistance and advocacy. It potentially puts at risk funding for nonprofits that provide shelter, legal aid, and other forms of support to immigrants who lack lawful status. Supporters of the bill assert that the legislation is necessary to tighten immigration controls and encourage compliance with existing laws, while critics argue it could severely limit assistance for vulnerable populations and undermine humanitarian efforts.
Summary
House Bill 9895, also known as the BARRIER Act of 2024, aims to restrict the availability of federal financial assistance to entities that provide assistance or facilitate illegal immigration. The bill proposes that any entity, including non-governmental organizations and corporations, that aids individuals entering the U.S. unlawfully or those present unlawfully would become ineligible for federal financial aid. This is intended to deter such entities from engaging in activities that would violate U.S. immigration laws.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB9895 include the implications it holds for civil society organizations that work with immigrants. Opponents of the bill express concerns that it could lead to a decrease in essential services and protection for individuals seeking legal help. Furthermore, the bill raises questions about the balance between enforcing immigration laws and maintaining a commitment to humanitarian support for individuals fleeing violence or persecution.
Fund and Complete the Border Wall ActThis bill establishes funding for a U.S.-Mexico border barrier and revises how border patrol agents are compensated for overtime.The Department of the Treasury shall set up an account for funding the design, construction, and maintenance of the barrier. The funds in the account are appropriated only for that purpose and for vehicles and equipment for border patrol agents.For each fiscal year, financial assistance to a country shall be reduced by $2,000 for each citizen or national of that country apprehended for illegally entering the United States through its southern border. The reduced amount shall be transferred to the border barrier account. The Department of State may opt not to reduce amounts appropriated to Mexico for various military and law enforcement-related activities.This bill establishes a 5% fee on foreign remittance transfers and increases the fee for the arrival/departure I-94 form for various aliens entering the United States, with part of the fees going to the border barrier account.By December 31, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security shall (1) take all actions necessary, including constructing barriers, to prevent illegal crossings along the U.S.-Mexico barrier; and (2) achieve operational control over all U.S. international borders.The bill changes how border patrol agents receive overtime pay when working up to 100 hours in a two-week period. For hours worked above 80, an agent shall receive at least 150% of the agent's regular hourly rate.