S.Amdt. 6235

This amendment, known as the Strengthening Security Through Joint Cargo Scanning Act, aims to add a new section to the bill that allows the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to start a 5-year pilot program.

The purpose of this program is to improve United States border security by analyzing manifest data and images of cargo and conveyances. These images are captured using non-intrusive scanning technologies at specific foreign ports of entry based on bilateral agreements with foreign governments.

Key Changes and Additions

• Program Execution: The program would use approved law enforcement officers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, other designated Federal agencies, and vetted foreign law enforcement units. Analysis will primarily happen at the National Targeting Center.

• Operational Requirements: The program must designate 5 ports of entry in a participating foreign country, which must include at least 2 land ports and 1 international rail crossing.

• Restrictions: Participating foreign governments are prohibited from letting their own law enforcement officers handle or analyze the images and manifest data. Additionally, the program cannot use hardware or software from entities on the Department of Commerce's entity list.

• Accountability and Oversight:

  • The Secretary must provide quarterly briefings and semiannual reports to appropriate congressional committees.
  • Unredacted copies of bilateral agreements must be submitted to Congress.
  • Training is required for U.S. personnel to protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.
  • After the program ends, the Comptroller General must provide an assessment of the program's effectiveness in strengthening border security and interdicting contraband, weapons, or people entering the U.S. unlawfully.