Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB3516

Introduced
12/14/23  

Caption

A bill to impose a fee on certain remittance transfers to fund border security.

Impact

The introduction of SB3516 would alter existing financial practices related to remittance transfers, potentially affecting various stakeholders including consumers, remittance service providers, and state security operations. There is a concern among some community members that such fees could place a financial burden on individuals who rely on remittance services, particularly families supporting loved ones in different countries. However, proponents maintain that the overarching benefit of increased security justifies these costs.

Summary

Senate Bill 3516 seeks to impose a fee on specific remittance transfers. The primary objective of the bill is to generate funding aimed at enhancing border security efforts. Supporters argue that the financial contributions obtained from these fees can significantly bolster the resources allocated to border control agencies, thereby improving their operational capacity and efficiency. The bill outlines the mechanisms for the fee collection from remittance providers and emphasizes the intended use of the funds for border security measures.

Contention

Discussions around SB3516 indicate notable contention regarding the implications of imposing fees on remittance transfers. Critics express worries that the fees may disproportionately affect low-income families who regularly send money abroad, as these transfers are often essential for maintaining economic support. Moreover, there are debates on whether the bill effectively addresses the complex challenges of border security or if it merely serves as a revenue-generating measure without fostering comprehensive security solutions.

Companion Bills

US HB6817

Same As To impose a fee on certain remittance transfers to fund border security.

Previously Filed As

US HB6817

To impose a fee on certain remittance transfers to fund border security.

US HB445

Border Security Investment ActThis bill imposes a fee on the electronic transfer of funds (i.e., remittances) sent to certain countries and provides funding for border security activities from the collected amounts.Specifically, the fee shall apply to remittances sent through money services business to one of the five countries that had the most citizens or nationals unlawfully enter the United States in the previous fiscal year, as determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The fee must be 37% of the amount sent.Half of the money collected by the fee must be placed in a trust fund for reimbursing border states for expenses incurred for border security enforcement measures. The other half must be placed in another trust fund for (1) deploying technology and installing physical barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border, and (2) paying the wages and salaries of U.S. Border Patrol agents.If the amount in the trust funds exceeds a certain threshold, the excess money must be used only for deficit reduction.

US HB4274

Remittance Expense Minimization and Integrity for Transfers Act

US HB114

Fund and Complete the Border Wall Act This 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 to go into the border barrier account. By December 31, 2023, DHS 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.

US HB76

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.

US HB672

Border Security Investment Act

US SB4361

Border Security and Combatting Fentanyl Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024 Border Act

US HB5839

Maritime Border Security Technology Improvement Act

US HB6542

Immigration Visa Efficiency and Security Act of 2023

US SB3367

Billionaires Income Tax Act

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