Border Security and Military Support: Legal Authorizations and Restrictions (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Dec. 14, 2006 |
| Report Number |
RS22443 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Stephen R. Vina, American Law Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
The military generally provides 'support' to law enforcement and immigration authorities along the southern border. Reported escalations in criminal activity and illegal immigration, however, have prompted some lawmakers to reevaluate the extent and type of military support that occurs in the border region. On May 15, 2006, President Bush announced that up to 6,000 National Guard troops would be sent to the border to support the Border Patrol. Addressing domestic laws and activities with the military, however, might run afoul of the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits use of the armed forces to perform the tasks of civilian law enforcement unless explicitly authorized. There are alternative legal authorities for deploying the National Guard, and the precise scope of permitted activities and funds may vary with the authority exercised. This report will be updated as warranted.
