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HR 1569

CATCH Fentanyl Act

119th Congress Introduced by Michael Baumgartner and 18 co-sponsors

The CATCH Fentanyl Act boosts border security by launching a pilot program to test advanced inspection tech, aiming to reduce fentanyl trafficking and overdose deaths.

Reported by the Committee on Homeland Security. H. Rept. 119-229.
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Bill Summary · HR 1569

Summary of HR 1569: CATCH Fentanyl Act

Purpose and Intent

The CATCH Fentanyl Act (H.R. 1569) aims to enhance the capabilities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in combating the trafficking of fentanyl and other illegal substances at land ports of entry. The bill establishes a five-year pilot program to assess and implement advanced technology for inspecting vehicles and cargo, thereby improving the detection of contraband.

Key Provisions

  • Pilot Program: The bill mandates the creation of a pilot program within CBP to evaluate at least five types of Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technologies. These technologies will be tested for their effectiveness in enhancing cargo inspection processes.

  • Reporting Requirements: CBP is required to report to Congress on:

    • The effectiveness of the technologies tested.
    • Recommendations based on the pilot program's findings.
    • A strategic plan for the deployment of successful technologies.

  • Increased Oversight: The legislation aims to bolster Congressional oversight of CBP's operations and technology utilization in the fight against fentanyl trafficking.

Background and Need for Legislation

The opioid epidemic, particularly the rise of fentanyl-related overdoses, has prompted urgent action. From May 2022 to May 2023, CBP seized approximately 27,900 pounds of fentanyl, contributing to a staggering 112,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. during the same period. The bill responds to the critical need for improved screening capabilities at the border to prevent fentanyl from entering the country.

Affected Parties

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): The primary agency responsible for implementing the pilot program and utilizing the new technologies.
  • Border Security: Enhanced inspection capabilities will directly impact border security operations and efforts to combat drug trafficking.
  • Public Health: The legislation aims to reduce the influx of fentanyl, thereby potentially decreasing overdose deaths and improving public health outcomes.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Committee Consideration: The bill was reported favorably by the Committee on Homeland Security on April 9, 2025.
  • Reported: The bill was placed on the Union Calendar on August 15, 2025, indicating it is ready for consideration by the full House.

Conclusion

The CATCH Fentanyl Act represents a proactive approach to addressing the fentanyl crisis by leveraging technology to enhance border inspections. By establishing a pilot program and requiring thorough evaluations, the bill seeks to ensure that CBP has the necessary tools to effectively combat the trafficking of this dangerous substance.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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