S. 2065: Continuing High-quality Evaluations of Concerning and Known Persons Of Interest through National Training Updates Act

The bill known as the Continuing High-quality Evaluations of Concerning and Known Persons Of Interest through National Training Updates Act, or CHECKPOINT Act, aims to enhance border security through the establishment and management of a new office focused on checkpoint operations within the U.S. Border Patrol. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill proposes:

1. Establishment of the Checkpoint Program Management Office (CPMO)

The bill mandates the creation of a Checkpoint Program Management Office within U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This office will oversee checkpoint operations across the country, ensuring consistency and efficiency in handling security at these checkpoints.

2. Management Structure

• The Chief of U.S. Border Patrol will select an Assistant Chief to manage the CPMO for a minimum of two years.
• The Chief is responsible for defining the roles, responsibilities, and authorities of the CPMO within 180 days of the bill’s enactment.

3. Policies and Procedures

The Chief will develop and maintain standard operating procedures that outline the responsibilities of the CPMO, support high standards of data quality and accuracy regarding checkpoint operations, and provide ongoing training for Border Patrol agents.

4. Coordination and Collaboration

• The CPMO must regularly coordinate with various departments within U.S. Customs and Border Protection to support CHECKPOINT operations.
• Key partners in this coordination will include programs related to canine units, operational testing, and strategic planning.

5. Data Collection and Reporting

The bill emphasizes the importance of collecting detailed data about checkpoints, including:

• Apprehensions and seizures made at checkpoints.
• The technology and resources used during enforcement actions.
• Secondary inspections that occur during routine checkpoint procedures.

A data collection plan must be established within 180 days to enhance reliability and accuracy of the collected data.

6. Annual Reporting Requirements

• The Chief, along with the Assistant Chief, will submit an annual report to Congress detailing the data collected and the effectiveness of the CPMO.
• An external report from the Government Accountability Office will evaluate the effectiveness of the CPMO within 18 months of the enactment of the bill.

7. No Additional Funding Required

The legislation does not authorize any new funds for its implementation, indicating that existing resources are to be used for these enhancements.

8. Sunset Clause

The act will automatically terminate five years after its enactment unless reauthorized.

Relevant Companies

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