H.R. 4071: Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Combatting International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act of 2025, aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in foreign countries. Below are the key components of what the bill proposes:

Enhanced Authority for CBP Operations Abroad

The bill amends a section of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to allow CBP employees to perform certain functions in cooperation with foreign governments. This includes:

• Working alongside local authorities in designated foreign countries to conduct joint operations.
• Obtaining official agreements with foreign governments to enable these cooperative efforts.

Identification of Threats and Humanitarian Assistance

CBP personnel will be allowed to support efforts that focus on:

• Monitoring and tracking the illegal importation of drugs into the U.S.
• Deterring the smuggling of people and goods.
• Addressing terrorist threats and other risks to U.S. security and economy.
• Conducting emergency humanitarian efforts, such as search and rescue operations, medical aid, and air traffic control assistance.

Funding for Claims and Operations

The bill includes provisions regarding funding and reimbursement for any claims arising from these operations. Key details are:

• The Secretary of Homeland Security may use appropriated funds to pay claims related to CBP operations in foreign countries, including legal damages.
• Any claims must be filed within two years of the incident that caused the claim.
• The Secretary is required to report any payments made under this provision to Congress, detailing the involved parties and circumstances.
• This funding authority will expire five years after the provisions are enacted.

Overall Purpose

The main goal of the bill is to strengthen U.S. efforts in combatting international drug trafficking and human smuggling by enhancing collaboration with foreign governments and broadening the operational scope of U.S. Customs and Border Protection outside the United States.

Relevant Companies

None found.