Ciscomani Introduces Bill to Add Greater Law Enforcement Presence on Border

Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) has introduced a bill funding the establishment of multiple Joint Operation Centers (JOCs) along the southern border, which would increase law enforcement presence.

The bill is named the Advanced Border Coordination Act. Establishing two Joint Operation Centers would allow State, Federal, and Tribal law enforcement agencies to better coordinate along the border to deter illegal crossings and catch criminals, share intelligence, and support workforce development and training coordination.

Additionally, it would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress annually on the centers' activities.

In his press release, Rep. Ciscomani said the ongoing border crisis "continues to hurt communities in my district and across the nation." As such, with the new congressional session, "securing our border and supporting our frontline agents and officers remains a top priority. This is why I am proud to co-lead this critical legislation to establish Joint Operations Centers that will enhance cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to combat illicit activity and keep our communities safe."

Representatives Dave Joyce (R-OH), Susie Lee (D-NV), and Chris Pappas (D-NH) are cosponsoring the Advanced Border Coordination Act, which increases the bill's viability in the House thanks to its bipartisan nature.

The Senate companion bill is equally bipartisan, having been introduced by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

Rep. Ciscomani's bill comes hot on the heels of another piece of border legislation he has introduced, that being the Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination Act, which would increase criminal penalties for acting as a spotter for the Mexican drug cartels operating along the border.

"This bill, which I am proud to lead again in the House, would increase punishments on spotters and sends a powerful message to anyone who is aiding or abetting cartel operations that they will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law," the Arizona Congressman previously said.