S. 301: Border Security is National Security Act

Summary of the Bill

This bill, titled the Border Security is National Security Act, proposes to authorize the appropriation of $10 billion to the Department of Defense for military support aimed at enhancing the security of the United States borders. The funding would be available until September 30, 2028, to assist the Department of Homeland Security in its border security efforts.

Sense of Congress

The bill states that it is the belief of Congress that the President has the constitutional authority to direct the military in securing the borders of the United States, using existing federal laws and appropriations for the Department of Defense.

Use of Funds

The $10 billion appropriated may be utilized for various purposes, including:

• Military personnel costs
• Procurement, operation, and maintenance of surveillance systems, including autonomous surveillance towers
• Intelligence analysis
• Installation of fences, barriers, patrol roads, and lighting
• Military aviation costs, including airlifting individuals to support Homeland Security operations
• Procurement and operation of counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in support of Homeland Security
• Procurement of ground vehicles, such as high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles
• Training and related expenses

Transfer Authority

The bill grants the Secretary of Defense the authority to transfer funds appropriated for military personnel, operations, maintenance, and procurement for similar purposes as needed. Additionally, if funds are determined to be unnecessary for their original purpose, they may be reallocated until September 30, 2028. The Secretary is required to notify congressional defense committees about transfers within 45 days.

Presidential Authority

Finally, the bill includes a provision stating that it does not limit the President's authority as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces under the Constitution.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing): As a significant manufacturer of military aircraft, Boeing may be involved in contracts associated with the procurement of military aviation costs outlined in the bill.
• RTX (Raytheon Technologies): Raytheon could be impacted due to its operations in defense and surveillance systems, which align with the procurement and maintenance of surveillance technologies proposed.
• LDOS (Leidos Holdings): Leidos is involved in providing intelligence and surveillance solutions, making it a potential beneficiary of contracts for intelligence analysis services.