U.S. Rep. McSally Introduces Legislation to Improve Accountability of Border Technology Projects

Bill Would Require Better Oversight, Cost-controls For DHS Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In her second bill this week, U.S. Representative Martha McSally introduced legislation to improve the management and accountability of new border technology projects. The legislation follows government reports showing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) acquisitions are a “high-risk” for waste, fraud, and abuse and lack important cost control measurements.

“When our border technology projects lack the proper oversight or accountability, it’s bad for taxpayers, those who defend our border, and those living along our border,” said Rep. McSally. “Southern Arizonans want to see Washington act to secure our border and they expect us to do it in a smart, cost-effective way. The Border Security Technology Accountability Act of 2015 will provide improved management of border security technology projects, safeguarding taxpayer dollars and increasing accountability for some of the Department’s largest acquisition purchases. I am pleased to be working with my fellow freshman Members on the Committee on Homeland Security on this legislation to combat waste, fraud, and abuse and increase accountability at DHS."

Rep. McSally’s legislation is her second bill to improve border security introduced this week and is part of a larger package of DHS accountability legislation, of which Rep. McSally also is a cosponsor, introduced by freshman members on the Committee on Homeland Security. The legislative package aims to curb waste, fraud, and abuse and increase transparency at DHS. A full list of bills can be found HERE.

Earlier this week, Rep. McSally introduced her first bill of the 114th Congress, the Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination Act, to increase penalties for drug spotters operating along our border. The legislation continues her strong focus since being elected on improving border security.

Why The Border Security Technology Accountability Act is needed:

• According to a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), since 2005, DHS Acquisition Management Activities have been on a “High-Risk List” due their high susceptibility to waste and mismanagement.
• A 2012 GAO report found that less than 1/3 of major DHS acquisition programs do not have Acquisition Program Baselines in place, important measurements for performance and cost-control. 
• In 2012, the DHS Chief Financial Officer reported that major acquisition programs will cost 30% more than DHS’ five-year funding plan.

Specifically, the Border Security Technology Accountability Act would improve accountability by requiring DHS border technology programs:

• Implement Acquisition Program Baselines before moving to the next phase of the acquisition cycle;
• Adhere to internal controls identified by the Comptroller General of the United States, and;
• Have a plan for testing and evaluation as well as use independent verification and evaluation resources.

For the full bill text, click HERE.