Summary

Summary of Executive Order Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border

Purpose

• The executive order declares a national emergency at the southern border of the United States, citing threats to national sovereignty and safety due to crime, drug trafficking, and uncontrolled migration.

Actions Taken

1. Deployment of Armed Forces:

• The Secretary of Defense is directed to deploy necessary military units and resources to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in securing the southern border.

2. Construction of Physical Barriers:

• The Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security are tasked with constructing additional physical barriers along the border, coordinating with willing state governors.

3. Regulation of Unmanned Aerial Systems:

• The Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission are instructed to consider waiving regulations that hinder DHS's ability to counter unmanned aerial systems near the border.

4. Policy Revisions:

• The order calls for a review of strategies and use of force policies by the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to address unauthorized entry effectively.

5. Revocation of Previous Proclamation:

• The order revokes a previous emergency termination proclamation from January 2021.

6. Reporting Requirements:

• The Secretary of Defense is required to submit a report within 30 days detailing actions taken under the proclamation, and a joint report with the Secretary of Homeland Security within 90 days, assessing border conditions and recommending further actions.

Expected Impact

• The order aims to enhance operational control of the southern border, improve national security, and mitigate the influence of criminal organizations and drug trafficking in the region.