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LPOE Modernization Trust Fund Act
12/20/2024, 9:06 AM
Summary of Bill HR 3135
The bill aims to address the need for updated infrastructure and technology at LPOEs in order to enhance security, facilitate trade and travel, and improve the overall efficiency of border operations. The trust fund established by this legislation would be funded through fees collected at LPOEs, as well as appropriations from Congress.
Proponents of the bill argue that modernizing LPOEs is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the US border, as well as for promoting economic growth and international trade. They believe that investing in updated infrastructure and technology at LPOEs will help to streamline border operations and reduce wait times for travelers and cargo. Opponents of the bill may argue that the funding mechanisms proposed in the legislation are not sufficient or sustainable in the long term, or that other border security measures should take precedence over LPOE modernization. Overall, the LPOE Modernization Trust Fund Act represents an effort to address the need for improved infrastructure and technology at US-Mexico border crossings in order to enhance security and facilitate trade and travel.
Congressional Summary of HR 3135
LPOE Modernization Trust Fund Act
This bill establishes the Land Port of Entry Modernization Trust Fund and addresses other issues related to U.S. ports of entry.
The bill transfers specified amounts, including a portion of certain collected customs fees, to the trust fund each year. It also requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State to collect certain surcharges related to immigration and land border inspections, with a portion of the surcharges to be deposited into the trust fund. DHS may not seek to increase fees to offset the amounts transferred into the trust fund.
Subject to appropriations, the amounts in the trust fund may be used to (1) construct new ports of entry, (2) expand and improve existing ports of entry, (3) procure technology for inspecting and processing traffic passing through ports of entry, and (4) hiring U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff.
DHS must also establish the Land Port of Entry Modernization Oversight Board to advise DHS on how to use the trust fund and to review the trust fund's expenditures.
