4 versions

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Jul 13, 2026)

Technical corrections only. The changes between v3 and v4 reflect the bill's procedural status, noting its passage in the House and referral to the Senate, and include the name of the Clerk. There are no substantive policy changes to the bill's text.

H.R. 8535119th CongressIntroduced Apr 27, 2026

Measuring Illicit Fentanyl Trafficking Act

Passed HouseCrime and Law EnforcementSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Walkinshaw, James R. [D-VA-11]
Committees: Homeland Security Committee (primary)
Last action: Jul 14, 2026

Bottom line

This bill aims to enhance the Department of Homeland Security's effectiveness in combating illicit fentanyl trafficking by mandating improved data sharing and the creation of specific performance metrics across its components.

What it actually does

This bill directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure that all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) components involved in combating illicit fentanyl collaborate, share relevant data, and identify barriers to such sharing. It also mandates the establishment of performance metrics for these components to measure their effectiveness in the detection, deterrence, and seizure of illicit fentanyl, aligning with the Department's strategic goals.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that this bill will significantly improve the Department of Homeland Security's ability to combat illicit fentanyl trafficking by fostering greater inter-component collaboration, breaking down data silos, and establishing clear, measurable performance goals. This will lead to more efficient resource allocation, enhanced accountability, and ultimately, a more effective national response to the fentanyl crisis.

Opponents contend

Opponents might contend that while the goals of collaboration and metrics are laudable, DHS components already have mechanisms for data sharing and performance measurement, and this bill could impose unnecessary bureaucratic burdens or duplicate existing efforts without providing new resources or authorities. Some may also argue that focusing on metrics alone might not address the root causes of fentanyl trafficking or could lead to unintended consequences if metrics are not carefully designed.

The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly.

Section 2(1)

Inter-component Collaboration and Data Sharing

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision requires all Department of Homeland Security (DHS) components engaged in the detection, deterrence, and seizure of illicit fentanyl to collaborate and share relevant information and data with each other. It also mandates that these components identify any barriers that prevent them from sharing this crucial information. The aim is to ensure a more unified and informed approach across the Department.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupDepartment of Homeland Security (DHS) componentsImpactIncreased coordination, improved data flow, potential identification and removal of bureaucratic barriers.MechanismMandate for collaboration and barrier identification.ScaleDepartment-wide for fentanyl-related operations.

GroupIndividuals and communities affected by fentanyl traffickingImpactPotential for more effective interdiction efforts, leading to reduced availability of illicit fentanyl.MechanismImproved intelligence and operational synergy within DHS.ScaleNational.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue that enhanced collaboration and data sharing are crucial for a comprehensive strategy against fentanyl trafficking, allowing DHS to leverage its full capabilities and adapt more quickly to evolving threats by ensuring all relevant information is accessible and utilized.

Critics contend

Critics might suggest that while the intent is good, mandating collaboration without addressing underlying resource constraints, technological incompatibilities, or cultural resistance could lead to superficial compliance rather than genuine, impactful integration.

Tradeoffs

This provision navigates the tension between the operational independence of various DHS components and the benefits of unified intelligence and strategic planning in a complex, multi-faceted threat environment.

Section 2(2)

Establishment of Fentanyl Detection and Seizure Performance Metrics

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish clear performance metrics for the entire Department and each of its components involved in combating illicit fentanyl. These metrics must specifically relate to the detection, deterrence, and seizure of fentanyl and are required to align with the Department's broader strategic objectives and goals for combating illicit fentanyl trafficking.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.

CosmeticWhat changed in REFERRED IN SENATEcompared with ENGROSSED IN HOUSE (Jul 13, 2026)

H.R. 8535119th CongressIntroduced Apr 27, 2026

Measuring Illicit Fentanyl Trafficking Act

Passed HouseCrime and Law EnforcementSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Rep. Walkinshaw, James R. [D-VA-11]
Committees: Homeland Security Committee (primary)
Last action: Jul 14, 2026

Bottom line

What it actually does

Proponents argue

Opponents contend

The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly.

Section 2(1)

Inter-component Collaboration and Data Sharing

prominently featuredstraightforward

GroupImpactMechanismScale

Supporters argue

Critics contend

Tradeoffs

Section 2(2)

Establishment of Fentanyl Detection and Seizure Performance Metrics

prominently featuredstraightforward