Both laws will strengthen U.S.–Canada cooperation
From the Office of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik
| WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik joined Rep. Nick Langworthy in introducing two pieces of legislation: The Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act to strengthen oversight and accountability, and the Integrated Cross Border Law Enforcement Operations Expansion Act to strengthen U.S.–Canada border security cooperation. “Alongside President Trump, I am working with the administration to secure the Northern Border and rid our communities of criminal, illegal aliens who Kathy Hochul has welcomed to our state under her very dangerous sanctuary city policies that incentivize illegal migration, overrun social services, drive up housing costs, and reduce wages,” said Chairwoman Stefanik. “New Yorkers deserve a governor who stands up for law-abiding citizens and who doesn’t put illegals first but actually puts New Yorkers first.” Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act While Congress passed the Northern Border Security Review Act in 2016 to require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a threat analysis, oversight since then has been limited – DHS assessments have been inconsistent, irregular, and not accompanied by required updates or classified briefings to Congress. The Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act will shore up DHS assessments that have been inconsistent, irregular, and not accompanied by required updates or classified briefings to Congress. 1. Biennial Threat Analyses: Requires DHS to submit a threat analysis of the northern border every two years, beginning September 2, 2026. 2. Strategy Updates: Within 90 days of each analysis, DHS must update its northern border strategy or notify Congress in writing if no update is needed. 3. Classified Briefings: Requires DHS to provide classified briefings to Congress within 30 days of each threat analysis. 4. GAO Recommendations: Within six months of enactment, DHS must develop performance measures for Air and Marine Operations (AMO) to evaluate effectiveness in securing the border between ports of entry in air and maritime environments. Integrated Cross Border Law Enforcement Operations Expansion Act The U.S. and Canada have successfully conducted integrated cross-border law enforcement operations in the maritime domain through programs like Shiprider, giving Coast Guard personnel the ability to operate jointly with Canadian officers. U.S. Border Patrol currently lacks this authority. The Integrated Cross Border Law Enforcement Operations Expansion Act directs DHS to negotiate agreements to expand similar joint operations to land, air, and maritime enforcement, providing legal protections and closing coordination gaps. 1. Negotiating Expanded Agreements: Directs DHS to pursue or amend agreements with Canada to expand integrated aerial, land, and maritime operations. 2. Privileges and Immunities for Officers: Authorizes the U.S. to grant necessary legal protections to designated Canadian officers working alongside U.S. personnel, and vice versa. 3. Tort Claims Coverage: Allows DHS/CBP to pay liability claims arising in foreign countries connected to U.S. enforcement operations, closing a gap in operational support. 4. Stationing of Officers: Permits the U.S. to deploy personnel to Canada and to accept Canadian officers stationed in the U.S., enabling joint enforcement actions. Read the bills HERE and HERE. |
