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.
The bill significantly impacts federal funding mechanisms for border security efforts and aims to centralize resources dedicated to constructing physical barriers. It also includes provisions to increase processing fees for certain border entry forms, which further contribute to the fund. The expected outcome of this bill is to streamline and enhance border security initiatives, which supporters argue is essential for national security. However, it may also lead to increased costs for individuals seeking to cross the border legally, thereby raising concerns about accessibility and fairness.
House Bill 76, titled the 'Fund and Complete the Border Wall Act,' proposes the establishment of the 'Secure the Southern Border Fund.' This fund is intended to hold deposits specifically allocated for enhancing border security along the U.S.-Mexico border. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Treasury create this fund within 60 days of enactment, and it will be available for construction, maintenance, and operational expenses relating to barriers along the border, with a stipulation that no more than 5% of the funds may be used for purchasing equipment for Border Patrol agents.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB76 include the implications of introducing fees for remittance transfers tied to border security funding. The bill imposes a 5% fee on remittance transfers sent outside the U.S., which has faced criticism from advocates concerned about how this could disproportionately affect low-income families who rely on remittances for survival. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the environmental impact and community effects of constructing barriers along the already contentious border region, which could lead to potential legal challenges and disputes between federal and state jurisdictions.