Central ND News

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) facilities frequently encounter extreme weather events, presenting significant challenges to border security operations, national security, and critical infrastructure. In the past year alone, 28 natural disasters across the nation caused at least $92.9 billion in damages, surpassing the previous record of 22 in 2020.

These extreme weather conditions directly impact CBP's ability to fulfill its responsibilities, affecting both the safety and well-being of personnel. Given the unique winter weather challenges faced by CBP personnel at the northern border, it is essential that the agency receives adequate resources and support.

To enhance CBP preparedness and response to hazardous weather near U.S. borders, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) has joined Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) in introducing the Border Weather Resiliency Act of 2024. The legislation will require developing a preparedness and response strategy, assessing past impacts, and implementing safety protocols to protect personnel, technology, and infrastructure.

The legislation aims to:

- Mandate a comprehensive assessment of the impact of extreme hazardous weather events on CBP operations, safety of personnel, and infrastructure.

- Require creating a mitigation strategy within one year with extensive consultations with relevant federal departments, emphasizing resilience against both summer and winter weather extremes.

- Establish protocols aimed at protecting CBP personnel, migrants, and infrastructure from adverse effects of extreme weather.

“Northern border states like North Dakota know firsthand how severe snowstorms can hamstring local communities,” said Cramer. “But whether it is a blizzard up North or extreme heat in the South, the Customs and Border Patrol have a vital mission that cannot afford to fail. I joined my colleagues in introducing the Border Weather Resiliency Act which takes a proactive approach to support Border Patrol agents as they prepare for and respond to severe weather events.”

“We are identifying real solutions to address and mitigate the risks of extreme weather impacting our Customs and Border Protection personnel and the infrastructure that keeps our communities safe,” said Sinema.

“Customs and Border Protection officers put their lives on the line every day in varying weather conditions,” said Cornyn. “With record crossings over recent years stretching resources thinly, they must identify ways to better protect officers from harsh weather conditions at the border.”

“Severe weather events are becoming stronger each year,” said Peters. “This legislation will help us understand how these events impact Customs and Border Protection personnel securing our borders.”

Click here for bill text.