0
0

CONTAINER Act

3/12/2025, 1:44 PM

Summary of Bill HR 534

Bill 119 HR 534, also known as the "Secure the Border Act," aims to authorize certain states to take actions on federal land in order to secure the international border of the United States. The bill allows states to construct barriers, roads, and other infrastructure on federal land to enhance border security.

Additionally, the bill grants states the authority to waive certain environmental laws and regulations in order to expedite the construction of border security measures. This includes laws such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act.

The purpose of this legislation is to provide states with the necessary tools and flexibility to effectively secure the border and prevent illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect national security and uphold the rule of law. Critics of the bill, however, raise concerns about the potential environmental impact of waiving certain laws and regulations. They argue that the bill could lead to damage to sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitats along the border. Overall, Bill 119 HR 534 seeks to address the ongoing challenges of border security and immigration enforcement by empowering states to take action on federal land. The bill is currently under consideration in Congress and has sparked debate among lawmakers and stakeholders.

Congressional Summary of HR 534

Creating Obstructions Necessary to Address Illegal and Nefarious Entry Rapidly Act or CONTAINER Act

This bill requires the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service to allow border states to place temporary, movable structures on federal lands adjacent to the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders without a special use authorization.

Border states may place these structures on such lands for the purpose of securing the northern or southern border for a period of not more than one year. Interior and the Forest Service must approve extension requests in 90-day increments if U.S. Customs and Border Protection determines that operational control of the border area has not been achieved.

Current Status of Bill HR 534

Bill HR 534 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 16, 2025. Bill HR 534 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 16, 2025.  Bill HR 534's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Forestry and Horticulture. as of February 20, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 534

Total Number of Sponsors
7
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
7
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
7
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
7
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 534

Primary Policy Focus

Public Lands and Natural Resources

Comments