Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB5839

Introduced
9/29/23  
Refer
9/29/23  
Refer
9/29/23  

Caption

Maritime Border Security Technology Improvement Act

Impact

The implications of HB 5839 are significant for state laws, especially regarding the operations of agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection. The bill prioritizes the assessment and acquisition of advanced technologies such as unmanned systems and detection equipment, which could lead to improved surveillance and interdiction capabilities. By emphasizing the need for updated technology, the bill seeks to strengthen not only border security but also the operational readiness of federal agencies tasked with safeguarding the U.S. maritime boundaries.

Summary

House Bill 5839, titled the Maritime Border Security Technology Improvement Act, mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a comprehensive assessment of technology requirements along the maritime border. This legislation aims to address various challenges related to maritime security, including preventing terrorism, combating illegal activities, and enhancing the overall operational capacity of border security agencies. The bill requires submission of a detailed technology needs analysis within two years of enactment, focusing on various technological advancements that can aid maritime security efforts.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from concerns about balancing security measures with civil liberties and the potential for overreach in monitoring and enforcement practices. Critics may argue that increased technology deployment could lead to unwarranted surveillance of innocent civilians and infringe on privacy rights. Furthermore, the requirement for biannual updates to Congress on technology implementations may raise issues regarding transparency and accountability in the deployment of these advanced systems.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

US HB7832

Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act

US HB8610

Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act

US SB5407

Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act

US HB1569

CATCH Fentanyl Act Contraband Awareness Technology Catches Harmful Fentanyl Act

US HB7229

WALL Act of 2024

US HB1608

Department of Homeland Security Vehicular Terrorism Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2025This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to submit a report to Congress on the department's efforts to prevent, deter, and respond to vehicular terrorism (i.e., an action that utilizes automotive transportation to commit terrorism). DHS must submit the report in coordination with the Transportation Security Administration and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.Among other things, the report on vehicular terrorism must includean assessment of the current and emerging threats;a review of higher-risk locations and events that may be vulnerable, including critical infrastructure sites (e.g., airports and government facilities);a description of DHS’s coordination efforts with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies related to prevention; andrecommendations for the research, development, and deployment of technologies to detect, deter, and mitigate vehicular terrorism.DHS must submit a classified report to Congress, but may include an unclassified executive summary. DHS must publish the executive summary on the department's website.In addition, DHS must brief Congress on the report's findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

US HB5525

Continuing Appropriations and Border Security Enhancement Act, 2024 Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024

US SB4062

CATCH Fentanyl Act Contraband Awareness Technology Catches Harmful Fentanyl Act