To authorize the Land Port of Entry Community Infrastructure Program to address deficiencies in community infrastructure supportive of land ports of entry, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 6791, the Land Port of Entry Community Infrastructure Program Act, aims to address infrastructure deficiencies in communities near land ports of entry. The bill authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to award grants to state, tribal, and local governments, as well as non-profit utility services, for infrastructure projects. These projects must support or be disproportionately impacted by the presence of a land port of entry.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to improvements in transportation, utilities, and other infrastructure in communities near land ports of entry. This could enhance border security, facilitate trade and travel, and improve the quality of life for residents and CBP personnel. The matching requirement exceptions for rural areas and homeland security priorities could direct funds to specific areas.
Potential Benefits
- Improved infrastructure (transportation, water, wastewater, telecommunications, etc.) in communities near land ports of entry.
- Enhanced border security through projects designed to improve illicit drug seizure rates and secure ports of entry.
- Increased efficiency and reliability of trade and travel across international borders.
- Enhanced resilience of land ports of entry and supportive infrastructure, including emergency preparedness.
- Improved quality of life for U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel and their families.
Potential Disadvantages
- The 30% matching requirement for most projects could be a barrier for some communities to participate.
- The prioritization of projects based on Homeland Security objectives might overshadow other community needs.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in the grant application and approval process.
- Funds may be diverted from other essential programs to support this initiative.
- The definition of 'community infrastructure' is broad, which could lead to disputes over project eligibility.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. The bill's focus on border security and infrastructure improvements also relates to the national defense and general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).