Keeping Land Ports Open: Restrictions on DHS Staff Transfers.
This bill aims to ensure that international land ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border remain fully operational, which is vital for trade and travel. It restricts the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from transferring staff away from these ports unless the transfer does not impact trade processing, the staff is immediately replaced, or the staff is needed for physical detentions to secure the border. This provides greater certainty for citizens and businesses involved in international trade regarding the continuity and speed of border crossings.
Key points
Restriction on DHS Staff Transfers: Staff cannot be moved from land ports of entry if it would affect the processing of trade.
Exceptions to the Ban: Transfers are only allowed if trade processing is unaffected, the staff is immediately replaced, or the transfer is necessary for active physical detentions to secure the border.
Exclusion of Processing Duties: Staff cannot be transferred for functions not directly involving physical border security, such as processing aliens who have crossed the border.
Notice Requirement: The DHS Secretary must notify Congress and the public (international trade participants) of any transfers and related closures within 24 hours.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3796
Sponsor: Sen. Cruz, Ted [R-TX]
Process start date: 2024-02-11