Strong Votes to Advance FY27 Homeland Security Bill Backing Border Security and Public Safety

WASHINGTON - Representative Dale Strong, member of the Appropriations Committee, highlighted the advancement of the Fiscal Year 2027 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill out of the full committee. The legislation delivers funding to secure the southern border, crack down on illegal immigration, and bolster homeland defense capabilities - including critical investments in counter-drone technology.

"Keeping Americans safe starts with securing our borders, enforcing our laws, and staying ahead of emerging threats," said Representative Dale Strong. "This bill delivers a comprehensive approach - providing the resources to strengthen immigration enforcement and meet today's complex security challenges. From bolstering counter-drone capabilities that North Alabama is leading to securing major events like the 2028 Olympics, this legislation ensures our law enforcement and first responders have the tools they need to protect our communities."

Securing the Border and Supporting Immigration Enforcement:

• Provides $439 million to sustain 22,000 Border Patrol agents

• Allocates $3.8 billion for ICE operations to strengthen the Trump Administration's efforts to detain and deport all criminal and removable aliens

• Enhances resources to detect and counter the spread of deadly drugs, like fentanyl

• Strengthens support for criminal investigations into human trafficking, forced labor, and child exploitation networks

Fortifying Homeland Defense and Advancing Tech Capabilities:

• Allocates robust resources for small and counter-unmanned aerial system development to neutralize sophisticated, evolving drone threats

• Fully funds the military pay raise for Coast Guard servicemembers

• Delivers targeted funding to modernize baggage screening equipment and technological infrastructure at commercial airports nationwide

• Expands partnerships with state and local law enforcement agencies to maximize immigration enforcement and homeland defense coordination

Enhancing Community Preparedness and Disaster Resilience:

• Boosts law enforcement personnel and security planning resources for major upcoming international events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Los Angeles

• Directs federal support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reinforce nationwide preparedness, disaster response, and recovery capabilities

• Bolsters emergency response efforts for local communities by increasing vital grant funding for firefighters and emergency medical professionals