North Houston News

Congressman Morgan Luttrell introduced the Cartel and Radical Terrorist Enforcement Log (CARTEL) Act, aimed at addressing the issues of cartel organizations and terrorists exploiting the United States borders. The bill requires Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to report on individuals on the Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB) released into the US interior and those affiliated with cartel organizations attempting to cross unlawfully.

In a statement, Congressman Luttrell emphasized the importance of combatting dangerous cartels and securing the borders: “Due to the Biden Administration’s failed policies, dangerous cartels are controlling our borders and profiting from extensive human and drug trafficking. Combatting these deadly cartels starts with knowing exactly who is exploiting our border and coming into our communities.”

The CARTEL Act mandates CBP to report on various aspects, including terrorist hits from the TSDB, individuals affiliated with cartel organizations attempting to cross unlawfully, and those apprehended with details on their release or removal. Additionally, the bill requires a report to Congress outlining which terrorist and cartel organizations are exploiting the northern, southern, and maritime borders to enter the US.

The legislation also builds upon the Secure the Border Act (H.R. 2) by expanding the provision to transnational criminal organizations such as cartels. The bill is cosponsored by several Representatives, including Michael McCaul, Anthony D’Esposito, Michael Guest, Kat Cammack, Neal Dunn, Bill Posey, Mike Lawler, Andrew Garbarino, Mike Ezell, Carlos Gimenez, Clay Higgins, and Dan Webster.