OKC Standard

Senator James Lankford has introduced the Border Enforcement, Security, and Trade (BEST) Facilitation Act aimed at enhancing border security by increasing personnel to scan cargo for illegal drugs, weapons, and human smuggling. As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Border Management, Federal Workforce and Regulatory Affairs, Lankford emphasized the need for additional support at ports of entry.

"Adding more personnel at ports of entry will immediately provide our country with another layer of security to prevent traffickers from smuggling weapons or drugs across the border," stated Lankford. He highlighted that border law enforcement has been requesting more resources to analyze cargo images in real time.

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Mark Kelly and John Cornyn. It proposes creating positions within Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for "image technicians." These technicians will review cargo scans and either approve them for entry or refer them for further inspection if they suspect illegal items.

Additionally, the legislation introduces "supervisory image technicians" who will handle complex image reviews and manage intelligence reporting with the National Targeting Center. The bill also includes provisions for training, workforce staffing models, and reporting requirements.

The proposed legislation has received backing from several organizations including US Travel, Border Trade Alliance, National Sheriffs Association, and National Association of Counties.