WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) this week introduced the Mexico Security Assistance Accountability Act, aimed at dismantling Mexican drug cartels and ensuring U.S. security aid to Mexico delivers measurable results. The legislation mandates the development of a clear strategy to combat cartels, establish accountability, and enhance the effectiveness of the $3 billion in U.S. security assistance provided over the last 15 years.
The bill comes as the fentanyl crisis continues to devastate the U.S., claiming over 300,000 lives nationwide, including more than 4,000 annually in Pennsylvania alone. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels as the primary drivers of the crisis, controlling the flow of nearly all illicit drugs into the country.
“For far too long, the Mexican drug cartels have poisoned communities in Pennsylvania and across the country with deadly fentanyl,” said Senator McCormick. “We need a clear strategy to dismantle the cartels that has real accountability and metrics for success.”
Senator Kelly emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with Mexico, stating, “Our bipartisan bill will establish mission goals to effectively dismantle cartels and increase the capabilities of Mexico’s law enforcement, strengthening U.S. national security and protecting our communities.”
A 2023 Government Accountability Office report highlighted concerns about the current security assistance framework, citing a lack of specific metrics, priorities, and monitoring plans to assess progress effectively. The proposed legislation seeks to address these gaps by establishing milestones and performance indicators tied to weakening cartels, enhancing Mexico’s security institutions, and combating corruption.
If enacted, the bill could strengthen cross-border security efforts, offering a tangible path to address the escalating drug crisis and protect American lives.
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