The House Committee on Homeland Security has threatened to issue a subpoena to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) if it fails to provide requested documents regarding the CBP One app by October 20, 2023. The app is used to release inadmissible aliens into the United States, according to a press release from the Committee.
Chairman Mark E. Green expressed frustration with the DHS's lack of transparency, stating, "The Department's continued lack of transparency is unacceptable."
The warning letter sent to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted the department's delayed response to the Committee's initial request, which was made on June 1. The DHS is now four months late in responding to the request and a month late in supplying documents following a follow-up request made on September 14.
The Committee's letter also mentioned concerns raised by a press report on August 4, 2023, which suggested that cartels may have exploited a geofencing feature in the CBP One app using a virtual private network to secure appointments for migrants. In a follow-up letter on September 14, the Committee made additional requests for documents and information related to this issue.
The requested documents are crucial for evaluating potential legislation aimed at reforming the DHS's authority to use the CBP One app, according to the Committee. They expressed concerns that the department's use of the app to facilitate parole for illegal aliens may extend beyond its statutory parole authority.
Chairman Green made it clear in the letter that if the DHS fails to provide the requested documents and information by 5:00 p.m. on October 20, 2023, he will consider "utilizing compulsory process," which could involve issuing a subpoena.
The Committee emphasized its jurisdiction for homeland security policy as outlined in Rule X of the U.S. House of Representatives, stating that it is obligated to oversee all government activities relating to homeland security.
