H.R.495 — Subterranean Border Defense Act
House Roll Call
H.R.495
| Bill | H.R.495 — Subterranean Border Defense Act |
|---|---|
| Vote question | On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass |
| Vote type | 2/3 Yea-And-Nay |
| Result | Passed |
| Totals | Yea 402 / Nay 1 / Present 0 / Not Voting 29 |
| Party | Yea | Nay | Present | Not Voting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R | 208 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
| D | 194 | 1 | 0 | 19 |
| I | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Research Brief
On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass
Bill Analysis
Bill Summary: HR 495 - Subterranean Border Defense Act
The Subterranean Border Defense Act (HR 495) aims to enhance the security of the U.S. southern border by addressing vulnerabilities related to subterranean tunnels and other underground passageways used for illegal activities, including drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Key Provisions: The bill mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to detect, monitor, and neutralize subterranean threats. This includes the deployment of advanced technologies for tunnel detection, such as ground-penetrating radar and other surveillance systems. The bill also emphasizes the need for collaboration with state and local law enforcement agencies to enhance border security efforts.
Funding and Authorities: HR 495 authorizes appropriations for the necessary technologies and personnel to support the implementation of the subterranean defense strategy. Specific funding levels will be determined through subsequent appropriations processes, but the bill underscores the urgency of allocating resources to combat underground border threats effectively.
Agencies Affected: The primary agency impacted by this legislation is the DHS, particularly the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These agencies will be responsible for executing the strategies outlined in the bill and coordinating with other federal, state, and local entities.
Beneficiaries and Regulation: The bill aims to benefit U.S. border security efforts, law enforcement agencies, and ultimately the communities along the border by reducing the flow of illegal activities through subterranean routes. It also seeks to enhance public safety and national security.
Key Timelines: As of the latest action, HR 495 has been received in the Senate, where it has been read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. The timeline for further consideration and potential passage will depend on the committee’s schedule and legislative priorities.
Yea (402)
K
Ken Calvert
J
Jason Crow
S
Scott Franklin
J
John Garamendi
M
Mark Green
J
John Mannion
L
Lucy McBath
L
Lisa McClain
J
John Rutherford
D
David Schweikert
P
Pete Sessions
E
Eric Swalwell
N
Nydia Velázquez
D
Debbie Wasserman Schultz
Nay (1)
R
Rashida Tlaib
Not Voting (29)
G
Gerald Connolly
L
Lloyd Doggett
R
Raúl Grijalva
