Congress Denies Funding for Unused Fentanyl Scanners Installation
Acting Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Troy Miller disclosed that despite millions of dollars being allocated for high-tech scanners to detect fentanyl at the U.S.-Mexico border, many of these devices remain unused in warehouses due to a lack of funding from Congress.
Miller stated in an interview with NBC News that approximately $300 million is needed to install the Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology, which involves X-raying vehicles for fentanyl detection.
He emphasized that over 95% of seized fentanyl comes into the country through personal vehicles, making the use of this technology crucial. The funding for installing these scanners was included in a supplemental bill passed by the Senate but pending in the House.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also seen as a way to enhance fentanyl detection efficiency at border crossings. AI technology can alert officers to suspicious changes in vehicles, enhancing the accuracy of scans.
Former Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan highlighted the importance of AI in targeting illicit activities while ensuring the smooth flow of legitimate trade and travel. He now leads Pangiam, a company developing AI technology for border security.
Miller expressed his goal of increasing scanning rates for personal and commercial vehicles using CBP’s resources by 2025. However, scanning 100% of vehicles would significantly disrupt legitimate border crossings due to the high volume of daily traffic.
Journalist Sandy Fitzgerald, who covers news, media, and politics, contributed to this article as a general assignment writer for Newsmax.© 2024 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
