News

Rep. Pingree Proposes Shrinking Border Enforcement Zone

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree of Maine is sponsoring legislation that would shrink the size of the border enforcement zone where federal agents can stop vehicles without warrants.

The Department of Homeland Security is currently allowed to stop vehicles without warrants only within 100 miles (161 kilometers) of the U.S. border, and the new legislation would shrink that to within 25 miles (40 kilometers) of the border.

The Portland Press Herald reports under current law, Customs and Border Protection has authority to conduct warrantless citizenship checks throughout the entire state of Maine.

The Border Zone Reasonableness Restoration Act was introduced Thursday and has a number of Democratic co-sponsors.

Pingree says the warrantless searches are a waste of resources and infringe on her constituents’ freedoms.

DHS says it has been increasing transportation checks across the country.

Latest Headlines

1 hour ago in Local

Woman in Critical Condition After Penobscot County ATV Crash

Fresh

The crash remains under investigation.

2 hours ago in Local

Maine Woman Serious Injured in Sagadahoc County Crash

Fresh

Deputies say a woman had to be extracted from her vehicle with serious injuries

3 hours ago in Local

Sen. Collins, Sen. King offer thoughts after Gaza ceasefire deal

Maine's congressional delegation reacting after Hamas released all living hostages after two years of violence in Gaza.

3 hours ago in Local

Hunter injured after gun goes off in northern Maine

A Brewer woman was hit by birdshot when a member of her hunting party fired their gun in Aroostook County.

10 hours ago in Local

Why Are There So Many Hotels in Portland?

Quincy Hentzel with the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce says the hotels are continuing to be built for a reason.