NCJ Number
214313
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2006 Pages: 20,22,24,26
Date Published
March 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the plans and challenges for increasing security at the Canadian and Mexican borders with the United States.
Abstract
The $42 billion budget of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) 2006 budget includes a $458-million increase for frontline border patrol initiatives. This will go for new border technologies and up to 14,000 border patrol agents, an increase from the current level of 11,300. David Aguilar, Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, views technology as a key to the future success of the Secure Border Initiative; his agency is depending on the private sector to provide these technologies. He envisions satellite technology, an infrared capability, long-range video, and more unmanned aerial vehicles. Technologies that can detect tunnels and significant changes in terrain are also needed. Pilot projects are testing new technologies that hold promise for creating model ports of entry. This Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) will use advanced technologies at entry ports to screen travelers seeking entry. One proposal is to require an electronic passport to replace the traditional passport at all land border points of entry. The DHS plans to issue guidance on the development and use of the card by the end of 2006. Because most international traveler databases at entry ports are local systems, an effort called the Global Enrollment System is attempting to link all of the border and entry-port databases through the NEXUS card. In the face of these changes in border security screening, U.S. industry representatives are concerned that the transportation of goods across the Canadian and Mexican borders will be impeded and delayed. The challenge is to improve security without hurting the economy.