Secure Border Initiative

The Secure Border Initiative (SBI), initiated in November 2005, is "a comprehensive multi-year plan to secure America’s borders and reduce illegal migration. ... Under SBI, our goal is to have operational control of both the northern and southern borders within five years," a U.S. Department of Homeland Security press release states. [1]

Overview

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announced in November 2005 "an overall vision for the SBI which includes" (as stated):

• More agents to patrol our borders, secure our ports of entry and enforce immigration laws;
• Expanded detention and removal capabilities to eliminate 'catch and release' once and for all;
• A comprehensive and systemic upgrading of the technology used in controlling the border, including increased manned aerial assets, expanded use of UAVs, and next-generation detection technology;
• Increased investment in infrastructure improvements at the border – providing additional physical security to sharply reduce illegal border crossings; and
• Greatly increased interior enforcement of our immigration laws – including more robust worksite enforcement.

Related SourceWatch Resources

• e-Passports
• Free And Secure Trade (FAST)
• illegal immigration
• NEXUS
• North American Union
• Registered Traveler Program
• Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI)
• U.S.-Canada Smart Borders Accord
• U.S.-Mexico Border Partnership Declaration
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• US-VISIT

External links

• Fact Sheet: "Secure Border Initiative," U.S. Department of Homeland Security, November 2, 2005.
• "DHS Announces Long-Term Border and Immigration Strategy," U.S. Department of Homeland Security, November 3, 2005.
• Frida Berrigan, "Militarizing the Border," Foreign Policy In Focus, April 12, 2007.