WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) on Monday introduced the Security First Act. The Security First Act focuses on providing needed resources to law enforcement through Operation Stonegarden. Operation Stonegarden is a grant program that allows local law enforcement to augment border patrol efforts at the southern border. 

“Operation Stonegarden is a lifeline for our Border Patrol who rely on local law enforcement and sheriffs to support their efforts at our southern border,” said Congressman Gonzales. “After two years of disastrous open border policies, it is imperative we have an all-hands-on-deck approach.  The Security First Act will do just that by making sure our borders are safe, resilient, and adaptive to the evolving challenges along the border.”

The bill works to further equip our Border Patrol and law enforcement agencies by:

• Doubling annual authorization of FEMA’s Operation Stonegarden from $90 million to $180 million for each of FY 24-27, $60 million of which must be used to procure technology and equipment such as sensors, communications equipment and drone technology;
• Depositing funds from seized illicit currency at the southern border into the Operation Stonegarden grant program account. 
• Requiring a report by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary focused on what improvements can be made in hiring and retaining Border Protection and Customs Officers;
• Requiring a report by the Secretary of State on whether Mexican drug cartels meets the criteria for designation as a foreign terrorist organization, to ensure law enforcement have the tools available to combat their operations and;
• Requiring a report by DHS on technology needs analysis at the border.

To read the full bill text, click here.