H.R. 4526 — Waste and Illegal Property Eradication (WIPE) Act

This section (1) authorizes the Secretary of Defense to use expeditionary solid waste disposal systems to destroy illicit contraband (e.g., seized counterfeit materials, unauthorized military gear, illegal narcotics, classified materials), with such systems required to support border security, narcotic interdiction, contraband elimination, and availability to military installations, forward operating bases, and partner security forces; and (2) prohibits the use of open-air burn pits (i.e., uncontained outdoor fires commonly used in contingency operations) for disposing of illicit contraband, classified military equipment, or hazardous waste materials. It also increases FY2026 authorization for Other Procurement, Army, by $8,950,000 for such systems, offset by a corresponding reduction in Operation and Maintenance, Army, Additional Activities, Overseas Operating Costs (derived from open-air burn pit use in contingency operations).