Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani from Arizona has partnered with Representatives Dave Joyce, Susie Lee, and Chris Pappas to introduce the Advanced Border Coordination Act (H.R. 285). This legislation aims to enhance law enforcement operations at the U.S.-Mexico border by establishing Joint Operation Centers. These centers are intended to improve coordination among federal, state, local, and tribal agencies in combating transnational criminal activities.

The proposed act mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to set up at least two joint operations centers along the southern border. These hubs will focus on enhancing field operations, intelligence sharing, and workforce training. Additionally, they aim to detect and deter criminal activities such as drug and human trafficking. The DHS Secretary will be required to submit an annual report to Congress detailing the centers' operational activities and recommendations for coordinated federal actions.

Congressman Ciscomani emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The crisis at the southern border continues to hurt communities in my district, and across the nation... I am proud to co-lead this critical legislation.”

Congressman Joyce highlighted his experience as Chairman of the House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee: “This bill is a step towards restoring the rule of law and securing our borders by establishing critical joint operations centers.”

Congresswoman Lee stated her support for Border Patrol officers: “I’ve consistently voted to secure the resources and reforms we need... I’ll continue working with Republicans and Democrats.”

Congressman Pappas added: “It’s critical we strengthen border operations coordination... I’ll continue working with colleagues to secure our borders.”

In the Senate, Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Marsha Blackburn are leading a companion bill. Senator Blackburn noted: “By establishing joint operation centers along the southern border... better equip Border Patrol.” Senator Cortez Masto remarked: “Border security shouldn’t be a controversial or partisan issue... By establishing joint operations centers along the southern border, this bipartisan bill will help us combat transnational crime.”

The text of the bill is available for public review.

Background information reveals that Congressman Ciscomani has also introduced other related bills during his tenure in Congress. In October, he attended a dedication event for a Border Operations Center in Cochise County.