Enhanced Counter-Narcotics Detection and Technology Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 9565
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-06-30: Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- Last Updated
- 2026-07-06T13:38:29Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This legislation aims to strengthen border security by requiring the use of advanced scanning technology at high-risk land ports of entry to detect narcotics and other contraband more effectively.
Key Provisions
- Identification of high-risk ports: The Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, must create an annual process to designate land ports on the northern and southern borders as high-risk if they rank at or above the 70th percentile based on drug seizure volume.
- Technology implementation: Within one year of identifying a high-risk port, large-scale, non-intrusive inspection technology (such as x-ray or gamma-ray systems) must be deployed for cargo screening, unless metrics show it is ineffective. Metrics for effectiveness are to be established by the Commissioner.
- Screening requirements: After implementation, at least 40% of feasible passenger vehicles and 70% of feasible commercial vehicles entering the U.S. at these ports must be screened using the technology.
- Training and updates: Relevant CBP personnel must receive training on the technology. The Commissioner must annually seek new or improved technology options.
- Reporting: Annual reports to Congress must detail the technology's effectiveness and any new options identified.
- Definition: The term "large-scale, non-intrusive inspection technology" refers to passive imaging systems capable of inspecting cargo for contraband, hazards, and anomalies.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This bill adds a new Section 420 to Subtitle B of Title IV of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, creating mandatory procedures for technology deployment and screening percentages at designated ports. It introduces specific timelines, thresholds, and oversight requirements not previously outlined in the Act.
Potential Impacts
- Government agencies: U.S. Customs and Border Protection would face new operational duties, including technology rollout, staff training, metric development, and annual reporting, potentially requiring additional resources.
- Citizens: Travelers at high-risk ports could experience changes in screening processes, with possible effects on wait times or security levels at borders.
- International relations: Implementation at northern and southern border ports could influence cross-border trade and travel with Canada and Mexico, depending on how screening affects traffic flow.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (primary agency responsible for implementation).
- Congress (receives annual reports).
- Commercial and passenger vehicle operators and travelers crossing at affected ports.
- Entities involved in border security and drug enforcement.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
The bill expands federal authority under existing homeland security laws to mandate technology use at borders without altering core constitutional powers. It emphasizes data-driven identification of ports and measurable screening goals, which could support future policy evaluations but introduces no new legal challenges within the text itself.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Schweikert, David [R-AZ-1]
Recent Actions
- 2026-06-30: Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-06-30: Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2026-06-30: Introduced in House
- 2026-06-30: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Enhanced Counter-Narcotics Detection and Technology Act — issued 2026-06-30 — PDF (5 pages)