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Are you in the Border Enforcement Zone? Why This Law Has Serious Implications Today.

Most people think of the U.S. border as a line you cross. But in reality, the federal government has created a “border enforcement zone” that stretches 100 miles inland from every U.S. border and coastline. Within this zone, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has special powers that go beyond what police normally can do.


That’s a huge area. Two-thirds of Americans — including people in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston, and the entire state of Florida — live inside it.

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A Quick History


In the 1950s, immigration law gave border agents authority to stop and search people “near the border.” Later, the government defined “near” as 100 miles. For decades, that meant extra checkpoints in the Southwest and along some coasts, but it rarely touched life in major cities.


Now, under today’s enforcement climate, those powers are being used more aggressively and in more populated places.


What CBP Can Do in the Zone


  • Highway checkpoints: Agents may briefly stop vehicles without suspicion to ask about immigration status.

  • Roving patrols: Away from checkpoints, agents need reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle, and probable cause or consent to search it.

  • Board buses, trains, and boats: CBP can board and question passengers. Greyhound and some carriers now require warrants to protect riders’ rights.


These powers rest on the “border search exception” to the Fourth Amendment, which courts have repeatedly upheld.


How It’s Being Used Now


CBP has moved far beyond small desert checkpoints. Today:


  • Urban operations:CBP has been observed in Los Angeles, New York, and Portland during protests or immigration sweeps — all inside the zone, sometimes even near political events like the recent Newsom event in Los Angeles.

  • Military-style patrols: At the southern border, CBP has partnered with the U.S. military for joint patrols, raising constitutional concerns.

  • Everyday disruption: Stops on highways and near workplaces sweep up not just undocumented migrants but also U.S. citizens, raising concerns about profiling and intimidation.


What are Your Constitutional Protections:



What to Do If You’re Stopped in the 100-Mile Zone


CBP has special powers in the “100-mile zone” near borders and coasts, but you still have rights. If you are stopped, here’s how to protect yourself safely:

  • Stay calm and respectful: Speak politely and follow lawful instructions. Do not argue or raise your voice.

  • Do not volunteer extra information: You are not required to explain where you are going or where you are from. You can simply say: “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”

  • Ask if you are free to go: Calmly ask: “Am I free to go?” If the officer says yes, you may leave. If they say no, stay calm and do not resist.

  • Do not agree to searches: You can politely refuse if an officer asks to search your bag, car, or phone: “I do not consent to a search.” CBP can still search if they have probable cause or a warrant, but your refusal protects your rights.

  • Keep a record, if safe:  If you feel comfortable, note the officer’s badge number, name, or vehicle license plate. If it is safe, you may record the encounter.

  • Get legal help afterward: If you believe your rights were violated, contact an immigration lawyer or legal aid group as soon as possible. Many organizations have hotlines for South Asian immigrants.

  • If ICE has arrested you or someone you know, Saalt.org recommends calling the Migra (Immigration Enforcement) Hotline at +1 (844) 363‑1423 to be connected with local resources.


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