The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a waiver that allows the federal government to bypass environmental regulations and commence the construction of additional barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border in Southern California.
This waiver signed by Secretary Kristi Noem is intended to expedite the construction process by cutting through bureaucratic delays, despite environmental concerns.
The big picture: The waiver marks President Donald Trump’s first environmental waiver in his second term and will fast-track the construction of approximately 2.5 miles of the wall near Jacumba Hot Springs, California, where illegal crossings have significantly reduced.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection aims to reinforce national security and the rule of law through the rapid deployment of physical barriers in key areas as per the waiver’s provisions.
Go deeper: The Trump administration’s emphasis on securing the southern border is evident, as over 50 miles of border wall sections have been erected since his inauguration in January, with the target of completing 1,400 miles of border barrier.
- U.S. Border Patrol Deputy Chief David BeMiller reported a daily average of about 220 arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico.
