Special to the American Press

U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson, R-La., has reintroduced the “Securing our Borders and Wilderness Act,” common sense legislation that removes restrictions for Customs and Border Patrol officials to patrol federally-designated “wilderness” areas along the southern border.

“However well-intentioned, the federal wilderness designation for land along our southern border has created a massive blind spot for CBP officials seeking to maintain operational control of the border,” Johnson said. “My legislation would allow CBP officials to effectively carry out their enforcement responsibilities while also maintaining the sanctity of America’s vast wilderness areas.”

This legislation would allow CBP officials to conduct their normal border enforcement activities, carried out in a manner that protects the wilderness character of the area. Agents would be permitted to:

• Access structures, installations, and roads
• Execute search and rescue operations
• Use motor vehicles, motorboats, and motorized equipment
• Conduct patrols on foot and horseback
• Use aircraft
• Deploy tactical infrastructure and technology
• Construct and maintain roads and physical barriers