DHS to Introduce AI Pilot Programs

On March 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) announced three planned pilot programs to be introduced this year which will utilize artificial intelligence (“AI”) for the advancement of homeland security. DHS’ first “Artificial Intelligence Roadmap” outlines how the government will use AI to deliver “meaningful benefits to the American public and advance homeland security, while ensuring that individuals’ privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties are protected.”

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The New York Times: “$10 Million from FEMA Diverted to Pay for Immigration Detention Centers, Document Shows”

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reallocated funds for use by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for hurricanes and natural disaster relief to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in order to pay for additional detention centers and removal operations, according to a document released by Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon last week. Merkley released the thirty-nine-page document to The Washington Post as Hurricane Florence approached the East Coast. The document notes a transfer of funds, originally meant for efforts including “Preparedness and Protection” and “Response and Recovery,” that was transferred to ICE for detention beds, transportation, and removal programs.  “At the start of hurricane season – when American citizens in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are still suffering from FEMA’s inadequate recovery efforts – the administration transferred millions of dollars away from FEMA. And for what? To implement their profoundly misguided ‘zero-tolerance’ policy,” Merkley says.

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