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2.0

DHS waives statutory requirements to expedite border-wall projects in the Rio Grande Valley Sector, Texas

  1. Original Date Announced

    August 26, 2025

    DHS Secretary Noem issued a notice of determination under Section 102 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA) waiving 31 environmental and public health laws "with respect to the construction of physical barriers and roads" to expedite border wall construction in the Rio Grande Valley Sector. The area at issue includes parts of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The waivers permit construction across 13 wildlife refuges, implicating critical habitats, migration corridors, and surrounding communities.

    Trump 2.0 [ID #1942]

    2025.08.26 DHS - Determination Pursuant to Section 102 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, as Amended
  2. Effective Date

    August 26, 2025
  3. Subsequent Trump and Court Action

    October 15, 2025

    2025.10.15 DHS - Determination re Rio Grande Valley Pursuant to Section 102 of IIRARA

    DHS Secretary Noem issued a notice of determination stating that she is waiving the application of over 30 statutes and regulations with respect to "all contracting actions necessary for the construction of physical barriers and roads" in the Rio Grande Valley Sector. The laws include the Administrative Procedure Act and various federal procurement and contracting laws. The determination is not focused on the "high illegal entry" area identified in the original policy entry.

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