0
Build the Wall Now Act
12/15/2023, 4:05 PM
Summary of Bill S 422
Supporters of the Build the Wall Now Act argue that a physical barrier is necessary to prevent illegal crossings and protect national security. They believe that the wall will help to deter drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other criminal activities that occur along the border. Proponents also argue that the wall will help to control the flow of immigrants into the country and ensure that those entering the US do so through legal channels.
Opponents of the bill, on the other hand, argue that a border wall is unnecessary and ineffective. They believe that the money allocated for the wall could be better spent on other measures, such as increasing border patrol agents, implementing new technology, and improving infrastructure at ports of entry. Critics also argue that a physical barrier could harm the environment, disrupt wildlife habitats, and damage relations with Mexico. Overall, the Build the Wall Now Act is a controversial piece of legislation that has sparked intense debate among lawmakers and the public. The bill's fate in Congress remains uncertain, as both supporters and opponents continue to push for their respective positions on the issue.
Congressional Summary of S 422
Build the Wall Now Act
This bill resumes the construction of, and modifies the requirements for, a physical barrier along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Specifically, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must, within one day of the bill's enactment, resume any project related to the construction of such barriers (and any related infrastructure), and DHS may not cancel any contracts related to such construction that were entered into on or before January 20, 2021. Additionally, funds already appropriated for such construction must remain available until expended.
The bill also modifies the requirements for the physical barriers along the southern border and requires DHS to consult with the labor organization representing border patrol agents about the safety and effectiveness of the agents deployed in the vicinity of the barriers.
Finally, the bill exempts these construction projects from certain legal requirements, including requirements stemming from the Administrative Procedure Act, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the federal laws regarding public contracts.





