House Bill Urges DHS to Explore AI-Driven Border Security Strategies

A bipartisan bill introduced in the House is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to investigate the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning and nanotechnology to improve border security operations.

The Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act, backed by Reps. Lou Correa, D-Calif., and Morgan Luttrell, R-Texas, mandates DHS to develop a strategic plan for integrating emerging technologies into its border security efforts, FedScoop reported.

In a press release, Correa emphasized the need for advanced solutions to address drug and human trafficking, citing the potential of the technologies to equip law enforcement with life-saving tools.

While Luttrell underscored the bill’s aim to counter evolving threats posed by sophisticated cartels and foreign adversaries.

The bill designates a Customs and Border Protection innovation team to research and adapt commercially available technologies for addressing urgent border security needs. The CBP will also collaborate with the DHS Science and Technology Directorate to incentivize private-sector innovation.

The legislation also requires the CBP commissioner to submit a report to the House and Senate Homeland Security committees within 180 days following the bill’s enactment, detailing operational procedures, strategic goals and cost projections for implementing emerging technologies.