Bill > HR1297

This bill establishes the Land Port of Entry (LPOE) Modernization Trust Fund, a new financial mechanism to support and improve United States border entry points. The trust fund will be created in the U.S. Treasury and will be financed through multiple revenue streams, including 25% of certain fees collected from border-related services, up to $1.6 billion in Merchandise Processing Fees, and 25% of specific immigrant and border inspection surcharges. The funds can be used for constructing new ports of entry, expanding and improving existing infrastructure, procuring technology for inspection facilities, making major repairs, and hiring U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel. A nine-member Land Port of Entry Modernization Oversight Board will be established to advise on fund prioritization and review expenditures, with members representing various federal agencies, transportation sectors, and border regions. The bill includes provisions for annual reporting to congressional committees, investment of trust fund assets by the Treasury, and specific guidelines for fee collection and fund usage. The Secretary of Homeland Security will coordinate the implementation, ensuring that no additional fees are imposed to offset trust fund deposits. The trust fund is designed to systematically address infrastructure and operational needs at U.S. land ports of entry, with a focus on facilitating efficient and secure border crossings.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1297/all-info