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POTUS issues memorandum ordering DHS to train National Guard troops to assist with border enforcement

  1. Original Date Announced

    April 4, 2018

    President Trump issues memorandum, directing the Department of Defense to assist the Department of Homeland Security in securing the southern border and authorizing DOD to request the calling up of the National Guard. Trump orders the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with the Secretary of Defense to provide training and instruction to National Guard units. [ID #311]

    Presidential Memo: Securing the Southern Border of the United States
  2. Effective Date

    April 4, 2018

Current Status

Fully in Effect

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Final/Actual
Trump Administration Action: Presidential Orders
Subject Matter: Border
Agencies Affected: DOD CBP AG

Pre Trump-Era Policies

  • April 17, 2012

    GAO found challenges for the National Guard and for active-duty military forces in providing support to law enforcement missions. DOD officials cited restraints on the direct use of active duty forces, operating under Title 10 of the United States Code in domestic civilian law enforcement, set out in the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878. Federal officials stated a number of broad issues and concerns regarding any additional DOD assistance in securing the southwest border. DOD officials expressed concerns about the absence of a comprehensive strategy for southwest border security and the resulting challenges to identify and plan a DOD role. DHS officials expressed concerns that DOD's border assistance is ad hoc in that DOD has other operational requirements. Further, Department of State and DOD officials expressed concerns about the perception of a militarized U.S. border with Mexico.

    GAO Testimony re Costs, Benefits, Challenges of DoD Role in Border Security

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