By Matthew Holloway |
Arizona Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ2) is bringing attention to a “robust border security funding package” that advanced out of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
The funding recommendation proposes massive investments in physical barriers at the border, the improvement of existing facilities, a major manpower investment, including retention bonuses and signing incentives, as well as an urgently needed overhaul of border surveillance technology.
“As Arizona’s only member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I’m proud to support President Trump and his team as they secure the border. By heavily investing in overlapping deterrents, our plan will significantly reduce human trafficking, fentanyl overdoses, and unlawful entries,” said Rep. Crane.
“This package will provide reinforcements for our brave agents on the ground and fortify our defenses for years to come. I appreciate Chairman Green’s leadership and look forward to sending the President long-overdue assistance.”
Among the recommendations, the Committee advanced an allocation of $46.5 billion for an “integrated border barrier system—an advanced solution that includes not only physical infrastructure but also technological enhancements.”
According to the Committee, the improvements will include: “internally reinforced steel bollards, fencing, all-weather access roads, lighting, surveillance cameras, and other cutting-edge technologies to support real-time monitoring and response.”
In terms of physical barriers, the package would allocate $46.5 billion for:
- Completion of 701 miles of primary wall
- Construction of 900 miles of river barriers
- Construction of 629 miles of secondary barriers
- The replacement of 141 miles of vehicle and pedestrian barriers.
Technological advances would include a $2.7 billion investment in:
- Ground detection sensors
- Integrated surveillance towers
- Tunnel detection capability
- Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)
- Enhanced communications equipment.
In terms of personnel-facing investments, the package directs $4.1 billion toward filling the need for “additional Frontline CBP Personnel,” $2 billion for annual Retention Bonuses for existing personnel, and signing incentives for new hires.
“After hours of Democrat objections to commonsense border security funding, Homeland Security Committee Republicans held the line to advance budget recommendations that provide Customs and Border Protection with the resources needed to continue President Trump’s success in securing our border for years to come,” said Chairman Mark E. Green.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
