- Lawmakers advocate for increased border technology funding to combat illicit activity at the U.S.-Mexico border
- House Homeland Security Committee emphasizes the critical role of emerging technologies in deterring criminal activity
- CBP personnel utilized NII technology to scan 7.6 million vehicles, leading to significant narcotics seizures
- Rep. Luis Correa highlights the use of artificial intelligence-assisted devices for quicker inspections and drug detection
- Witnesses stress the need for more trained and experienced CBP agents alongside advanced technology for effective border security
Lawmakers Advocate for Increased Border Technology Funding
Lawmakers on the House Homeland Security Committee have been fervently advocating for greater funding to bolster the use of cutting-edge technology in combating illicit activities along the U.S.-Mexico border. The push for enhanced technological solutions comes at a critical time when the border faces escalating challenges from criminal elements. During a recent subcommittee hearing, Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., emphasized the urgent need for advanced border security technologies to combat the ever-evolving threats posed by criminal organizations. He stressed the pivotal role that innovative technologies play in deterring criminal activities, such as cartel drones and coyote smuggling operations.
Impact of Technology on Border Security
In the fiscal year 2022, the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) personnel employed large-scale Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology to scan 7.6 million vehicles at the border, resulting in the seizure of over 100,000 pounds of narcotics. The utilization of NII technology significantly expedited the examination process, reducing the time taken from two hours to just eight minutes. This enhanced efficiency not only saved operational costs amounting to $1 billion but also prevented delays that could have cost between $5.8 billion and $17.5 billion. The successful deployment of artificial intelligence-assisted devices by CBP officers further aided in detecting and intercepting drugs and other illicit substances, enabling more targeted and swift inspections.
Call for Enhanced Collaboration and Investment
Recognizing the immense scale of the challenges faced at the border, lawmakers are advocating for increased investment in advanced technology solutions. Rep. Luis Correa, D-Calif., emphasized the necessity for additional scanners to curb the influx of fentanyl into the country and advocated for greater investments in cameras and ground-based sensors to provide crucial data for apprehending human smugglers and traffickers. A bipartisan effort led by several lawmakers urged for closer collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security’s Science & Technology Directorate and CBP to enhance passive NII technology through advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. These developments aim to strengthen the detection capabilities for contraband substances like fentanyl, facilitating more effective border security measures.
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The Need for Trained Personnel
While technology remains a crucial aspect of border security, witnesses at the congressional hearing highlighted the indispensable role of well-trained and experienced personnel in effectively leveraging these technological advancements. Thaddeus Cleveland, the sheriff of Terrell County, Texas, and a former CBP agent, emphasized the significance of having an adequate number of trained agents on the ground to act upon the information provided by advanced surveillance technologies. Despite the advancements in technology aiding in detection, the shortage of experienced personnel has been a persistent challenge faced by CBP. Cleveland stressed the importance of having a balanced approach that combines technological innovations with a sufficient workforce to effectively combat illicit activities at the border.
The advocacy for increased border technology funding by lawmakers underscores the critical need for leveraging advanced technological solutions to enhance border security measures. By investing in cutting-edge technologies, collaborating on innovative developments, and ensuring an adequate number of trained personnel, the U.S. can strengthen its defenses against criminal activities at the border and safeguard national security.
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