Border Security and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006

H.R. 5067, the Border Security and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2006, is a legislative proposal designed to increase federal oversight and physical security at United States land and maritime borders. The bill would mandate the hiring of additional Border Patrol agents and port-of-entry inspectors, while requiring the installation of radiation detection technology at all ports of entry to prevent the smuggling of dangerous materials.

For citizens and residents, the bill’s primary impact would be a shift in how the border is managed and monitored. It authorizes the government to reimburse private property owners for damages caused by illegal border crossings and establishes a "Center for Excellence for Border Security" at a university to study long-term security strategies. Additionally, the bill would end the practice of "catch and release" by requiring the mandatory detention of most individuals apprehended while attempting to enter the country illegally.

The legislation also seeks to improve coordination between local and federal authorities. It allows state, local, and tribal governments to be reimbursed for performing certain border security tasks and creates a dedicated Office of Air and Marine Operations to monitor U.S. airspace and coastal waters. While the bill was introduced in 2006 and referred to a subcommittee, it did not advance further to become law.