Yavapai News

The United States House of Representatives has approved the Subterranean Border Defense Act, a bipartisan bill reintroduced by Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) and Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA). This legislation addresses the growing threat posed by illicit cross-border tunnels along the U.S. southwest border, which are utilized by Transnational Criminal Organizations.

Since 1990, over 140 tunnels have been discovered breaching the U.S. border, with tunnel activity increasing by 80% since 2008. The legislation aims to strengthen border security by enhancing Congressional oversight of these tunnel operations.

Rep. Crane emphasized the importance of this bill in light of reduced illegal border crossings due to previous efforts led by President Trump to halt such activities. He noted that adversaries might resort to using tunnels as an alternative method for infiltration.

“Passage of this bill is a massive win for our security," said Rep. Crane. "With border crossings thankfully going down since January, it’s safe to assume this will drive threats underneath our border through these tunnels." He added that the legislation would ensure Congress has adequate knowledge and oversight regarding this dynamic threat.

Crane expressed gratitude towards Chairman Green, Rep. Correa, and other colleagues for their support in passing the bill, highlighting that effective border security relies on overlapping deterrents.