The CATCH Fentanyl Act directs the Department of Homeland Security, through U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Innovation Team, to launch pilot programs testing advanced technologies at land ports of entry to detect fentanyl, other drugs, weapons, and contraband in vehicles and cargo more efficiently. Within one year of enactment, CBP must begin testing at least five types of nonintrusive inspection technology enhancements—drawing from categories like artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum sensing, and other emerging tech—while coordinating with DHS's Science and Technology Directorate and consulting private-sector technology providers. The pilots, which will run for five years, are evaluated on their ability to detect contraband, reduce wait times at the border, integrate with existing infrastructure, and operate cost-effectively. DHS must report to Congress on results three years after enactment and again after the pilots end, detailing effectiveness, costs, and recommendations for broader rollout, while the department's privacy and civil liberties officers must also assess and report on any privacy or civil rights impacts of the technologies both before and after testing. This legislation primarily affects CBP operations, border communities, commercial shippers and travelers crossing at land ports, and technology companies that may compete to supply inspection tools.
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