DHS Waives Environmental Laws to Expedite Southern California Border Wall Construction

The Trump administration accelerates its border security agenda with the first environmental waiver of Trump's second term, enabling 2.5 miles of new wall construction near San Diego.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a waiver bypassing environmental regulations, fast-tracking 2.5 miles of border wall construction near Jacumba Hot Springs and San Diego.
The waiver, leveraging funds from fiscal years 2020 and 2021, exempts the project from laws like the National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act.
This marks the first environmental waiver of Trump’s second term, continuing a precedent set during his first administration to expedite border wall projects.
Environmental groups, including Earthjustice, criticize the move, warning of significant harm to ecosystems, cultural sites, and border communities.
The Trump administration aims to construct up to 1,400 miles of uninterrupted border barrier, reinforcing its commitment to heightened border security measures.