Furthering American Security by Tempering Environmental Regulations Act; FASTER Act
Summary
The "Furthering American Security by Tempering Environmental Regulations Act" (FASTER Act) directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct biennial surveys of tactical infrastructure along the southern border. These surveys will assess the number of miles without infrastructure, structural deficiencies, and technological shortcomings. The Secretary is then authorized to take necessary actions, including waiving legal requirements, to correct identified deficiencies in an expedited manner.
Expected Effects
The FASTER Act aims to enhance border security by identifying and addressing deficiencies in tactical infrastructure and technology along the southern border. It grants the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to expedite repairs and improvements by waiving legal requirements. This could lead to quicker upgrades and deployment of resources, but also potential circumvention of environmental and other regulatory protections.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced border security through improved tactical infrastructure.
- Faster response to identified deficiencies along the southern border.
- Potential for more effective use of technology in border control.
- Streamlined processes for infrastructure repair and upgrades.
- Increased operational readiness of border security personnel.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for environmental damage due to waived regulations.
- Reduced transparency and public input in infrastructure projects.
- Possible negative impact on local communities and ecosystems.
- Risk of overlooking important environmental and social considerations.
- Potential for abuse of waiver authority.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The FASTER Act's constitutional alignment is complex. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and regulate immigration, which supports the Act's objective. However, the Act's provision allowing the Secretary of Homeland Security to waive legal requirements could raise concerns about the separation of powers and due process if it infringes on established legal protections or judicial review. The Fifth Amendment's due process clause could be implicated if waivers are implemented without adequate consideration of individual rights or environmental impacts.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).