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H.R. 992: Preventing Aliens Through Rivers or Land Act

This bill, known as the Preventing Aliens Through Rivers or Land Act (or PATROL Act), aims to change how border security measures are regulated. Specifically, it proposes that the Attorney General of the United States cannot take legal action against a state for implementing certain border security measures. Here's a breakdown of its key provisions:

Prohibition on Civil Action

The primary function of this bill is to prevent the Department of Justice from filing civil lawsuits against states based on actions they take to enhance border security. This limitation applies to civil actions that may arise under specific sections of an older Act (from 1899), related to the construction of barriers along state borders.

Scope of Measures Covered

States would have the authority to undertake measures to:

  • Prevent unauthorized entry of aliens into the state, as per immigration laws.
  • Protect the territory of the state.

Definitions

For clarity, the bill defines several key terms:

  • Alien: Refers to individuals who are not U.S. citizens or nationals, as defined in immigration law.
  • Barrier: Encompasses any physical structure used for border security, such as walls, fences, or floating buoys.
  • Immigration Laws: Refers to laws governing immigration, as outlined in existing federal legislation.

Effect on States

By allowing states to build physical barriers without the threat of federal legal challenges, the bill aims to enhance state-level control over border security practices. This could encourage states to take more proactive steps in managing their borders.

Process and Legislative Journey

The bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and has been assigned to relevant committees for further consideration, which involves discussion and possible amendments before it can move forward in the legislative process.

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Sponsors

20 bill sponsors

Actions

3 actions

Date Action
Feb. 05, 2025 Introduced in House
Feb. 05, 2025 Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, 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.
Feb. 05, 2025 Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.

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