Us Congress House Bill HB4645

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/23/25
• Refer: 7/23/25

Caption

NARCO Act of 2025 New Authorities Reforming Counter-narcotic Operations Act of 2025

Impact

The NARCO Act proposes significant changes to the oversight and effectiveness of U.S. international narcotics and law enforcement programs, particularly by centralizing authority under the Assistant Secretary and ensuring greater accountability to Congress. Key priorities include maintaining ongoing coordination of narcotics-related matters and improving foreign judicial systems as well as law enforcement agencies. By bolstering foreign partnerships and resources dedicated to counter-drug operations, the bill aims to reduce the threats posed by organized crime and enhance U.S. security interests abroad.

Summary

House Bill 4645, known as the NARCO Act of 2025, seeks to amend the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 by redefining the roles and responsibilities of the Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. The bill emphasizes the importance of combating international narcotics production and trafficking, along with addressing illicit finance and activities perpetrated by transnational criminal and terrorist organizations. This proposed legislation aims to strengthen U.S. efforts in foreign law enforcement and counter-narcotic operations to enhance national security.

Contention

Although the goals of the NARCO Act are seen as critical in addressing the challenges of narcotics and transnational crime, there may be contention regarding the allocation of resources and the effectiveness of new measures. Critics may argue that focusing on clandestine operations overseas could lead to unintended consequences on local communities, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the reorganization of responsibilities could spark debate over how to balance the needs for local law enforcement support while advancing a unified federal strategy on narcotics and criminal activities.