This bill matters to voters because it directly addresses concerns about border security, drug trafficking, and the influence of criminal organizations within the United States. By requiring an assessment for Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation for powerful cartels and gangs, it could equip the U.S. government with more tools, such as sanctions and asset freezes, to combat their operations and reduce their ability to smuggle drugs like fentanyl and engage in human trafficking.
Furthermore, the bill aims to bolster the resources available to law enforcement at all levels by increasing funding for the Operation Stonegarden program and creating a dedicated trust fund from seized border cash. This could lead to a more technologically advanced and better-resourced effort to patrol and secure the Southwest border. If this bill becomes law, it could lead to stronger enforcement actions against criminal groups, increased security presence at the border, and potentially a reduction in illegal crossings and drug flows, whereas without it, current enforcement tools and funding levels for state and local border security assistance would remain unchanged.
KEY PROVISIONS
4AI-extracted
PROVISION 01
Requires the Secretary of State to submit a report within 60 days assessing whether specific Mexican drug cartels and the Tren De Aragua gang meet the criteria for Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation.
This provision could lead to new, powerful legal and financial tools for the U.S. government to target and dismantle these criminal organizations.
PROVISION 02
Authorizes $110 million annually for the Operation Stonegarden grant program and an additional $36.6 million annually for technology and equipment from fiscal years 2025 through 2028.
This provides significant, dedicated funding to state and local law enforcement agencies assisting federal efforts in border security.
PROVISION 03
Establishes an "Operation Stonegarden Trust Fund" in the U.S. Treasury, funded by monetary instruments seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the U.S.-Mexico border when individuals fail to declare them.
This creates a new, self-sustaining funding source specifically for Operation Stonegarden, linking illicit financial flows directly to border security funding.
PROVISION 04
Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a technology needs analysis for Southwest border security within one year of the bill's enactment.
This ensures a comprehensive review of current technology gaps and future needs to improve border surveillance and interdiction capabilities.
Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
INTROREFERRAL
JAN 16
Referred to the Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement.
COMMITTEE
JAN 16
Referred to the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence.
This bill matters to voters because it directly addresses concerns about border security, drug trafficking, and the influence of criminal organizations within the United States. By requiring an assessment for Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation for powerful cartels and gangs, it could equip the U.S. government with more tools, such as sanctions and asset freezes, to combat their operations and reduce their ability to smuggle drugs like fentanyl and engage in human trafficking.
Furthermore, the bill aims to bolster the resources available to law enforcement at all levels by increasing funding for the Operation Stonegarden program and creating a dedicated trust fund from seized border cash. This could lead to a more technologically advanced and better-resourced effort to patrol and secure the Southwest border. If this bill becomes law, it could lead to stronger enforcement actions against criminal groups, increased security presence at the border, and potentially a reduction in illegal crossings and drug flows, whereas without it, current enforcement tools and funding levels for state and local border security assistance would remain unchanged.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
Requires the Secretary of State to submit a report within 60 days assessing whether specific Mexican drug cartels and the Tren De Aragua gang meet the criteria for Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation.
This provision could lead to new, powerful legal and financial tools for the U.S. government to target and dismantle these criminal organizations.
high
Authorizes $110 million annually for the Operation Stonegarden grant program and an additional $36.6 million annually for technology and equipment from fiscal years 2025 through 2028.
This provides significant, dedicated funding to state and local law enforcement agencies assisting federal efforts in border security.
med
Establishes an "Operation Stonegarden Trust Fund" in the U.S. Treasury, funded by monetary instruments seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the U.S.-Mexico border when individuals fail to declare them.
This creates a new, self-sustaining funding source specifically for Operation Stonegarden, linking illicit financial flows directly to border security funding.
med
Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to submit a technology needs analysis for Southwest border security within one year of the bill's enactment.
This ensures a comprehensive review of current technology gaps and future needs to improve border surveillance and interdiction capabilities.
Operation Stonegarden (technology and equipment procurement)
discretionary
FY2025-FY2028
Equivalent to amounts received from seized unreported monetary instruments at the U.S.-Mexico border
Operation Stonegarden Trust Fund
mandatory
FY2025 and each fiscal year thereafter until 2028
GLOSSARY
AI-written
Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO)
A foreign organization designated by the U.S. Secretary of State as engaging in terrorist activity that threatens the security of U.S. nationals or national security.
Operation Stonegarden
A U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant program that provides funding to state and local law enforcement agencies to enhance their capabilities to participate in joint efforts with federal agencies to secure U.S. borders.
A consolidated database of identifying information about individuals known or reasonably suspected of being involved in terrorist activities.
Monetary Instrument
Refers to cash, traveler's checks, negotiable instruments (like certain checks or money orders), incomplete instruments, and securities or stock that are easily transferred upon delivery.
Appropriations
Funds set aside by Congress for a specific government program or purpose. 'Authorized to be appropriated' means Congress permits these funds to be spent, but doesn't guarantee the money will actually be provided.
Trust Fund
A special account in the U.S. Treasury where certain government receipts are collected and specifically designated to be used for a particular purpose or program.
ACTION TIMELINE
4 EVENTS
JAN 16, 25
Introduced in House
INTROREFERRAL
JAN 16, 25
Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
INTROREFERRAL
JAN 16, 25
Referred to the Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement.
COMMITTEE
JAN 16, 25
Referred to the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence.
A term used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to refer to individuals who have illegally entered the United States and successfully evaded apprehension by Border Patrol agents.
Ports of Entry
Designated locations where international travelers and cargo can officially enter or exit a country, such as airports, seaports, and land border crossings.
