By Kristin Finklea

In policy discussions around drug trafficking and elevated overdose deaths related to illicit opioids and other drugs, some observers have looked to the tools border officials have in place to help detect and stop the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. More specifically, attention has turned to the use of nonintrusive inspection (NII) equipment to scan commercial and private vehicles crossing into the country for illicit drugs and other contraband.  
Congressional Research Service; September 2025. 3p.