Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS), chairman of the Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement, has announced a hearing scheduled for next Thursday to examine U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) use of non-intrusive inspection (NII) technology at U.S. borders. This technology is used by CBP to detect and stop illicit drugs, hidden currency, contraband, and individuals being smuggled into the country.
In July 2025, President Trump approved new border technology investments that originated from the House Committee on Homeland Security as part of a reconciliation package supported by House Republicans. The package included over $1 billion dedicated to NII technology.
Subcommittee Chairman Guest stated, “Non-intrusive inspection technology is a vital tool for CBP officers as they carry out their mission to keep our borders secure and combat the smuggling of dangerous drugs, like fentanyl, into our communities. While reconciliation investments provided by House Republicans stand to enhance this technology at our ports of entry, the program has faced challenges in the acquisition, maintenance, and deployment of this equipment in the past. Technology is only effective if we utilize it effectively. As we examine President Trump’s whole-of-government border security success, we must ensure CBP is using every resource at its disposal to maintain this homeland security posture.”
The hearing titled “Smarter Borders, Safer Nation: Expanding the Use of Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology” will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET in room 310 Cannon House Office Building.
Witnesses scheduled include Diane Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner from CBP’s Office of Field Operations; and Hilary Benedict, Director for Science, Technology Assessments, and Analytics at the U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Testimony from witnesses will be made available online before the hearing. The event will be livestreamed on YouTube and open to both the public and press. Members of the press are required to have congressional credentials and should RSVP in advance.
