Legislation seeks to increase funding for Caribbean Basin Security Initiative

U.S. Reps. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) and Mark Green (R-TN) introduced last week legislation seeking to increase funding to the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI).

The measure garnered advancement in the U.S. House of Representatives last year as efforts with the executive branch continue to balance prevention and enforcement region-wide.

“CBSI has been crucial in helping our partners in the Caribbean improve their capacity to combat transnational crime, violence, and regional instability while enhancing our own security and strengthening partnerships,” Espaillat, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, said. “Our legislation would significantly disrupt the illegal narcotics trade, combat corruption in government, and increase security and justice standards throughout the region.”

Espaillat said promoting good governance, enhancing programs for at-risk youth and vulnerable populations, and supporting strategic border and maritime security cooperation empowers the Caribbean while enhancing national security.

Under the legislation, nearly $75 million would be allocated annually from 2022 through 2026 to improve security cooperation with Caribbean nations while combating illicit drug trafficking and providing justice sector reform support.

“Americans overdose every day on illicit narcotics that were trafficked through the Caribbean to our shores,” Green, ranking member on the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, said. “It’s past time to take a stand against these drug smugglers and the corruption that allows them to thrive. Our bill helps do that by providing the resources necessary to improve security cooperation and combat the criminal organizations that victimize their own countries, as well as ours.”