If enacted, HB 1297 would significantly impact federal statutes relating to customs and border management. The establishment of the Land Port of Entry Modernization Trust Fund would financially empower the Department of Homeland Security and related agencies to prioritize upgrades essential for national security and economic facilitation. It would also facilitate necessary hiring within the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to adequately staff these ports, which is critical as trade and borders evolve.
Summary
House Bill 1297, known as the Land Port of Entry Modernization Trust Fund Act, aims to establish a dedicated trust fund to modernize and improve the infrastructure of U.S. land ports of entry. The bill proposes that funds collected from customs fees and other related charges be deposited into this trust fund to finance the construction of new ports as well as the expansion and enhancement of existing facilities. This is seen as a step towards accommodating increasing volumes of commercial and pedestrian traffic, thereby improving efficiency in border operations.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB 1297 will likely focus on funding sources and the management of the trust fund itself. Lawmakers may express concern over the reliance on fee collections from users, questioning whether this burden may deter trade or place an undue strain on businesses. Additionally, there may be unease regarding the potential bureaucratic oversight associated with the management of these funds and the efficiency of their application towards the intended purposes of modernization and security enhancements at land ports.
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.