Central ND News

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) held a markup session late September for two pieces of legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND). The bills are the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act and legislation to rename the post office in Casselton as the "Commander Delbert Austin Olson Post Office." Both pieces of legislation were unanimously advanced by the committee and will now proceed to the Senate floor for consideration.

Cramer, co-chair of the American-Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, collaborated with U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to introduce the Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act last week. This bill is seen as a significant step in securing the U.S.-Canada border.

“Our steadfast alliance with Canada has long been a cornerstone of both economic and national security,” said Cramer. “The U.S.-Canada relationship is defined by more than just geography; it is built on an enduring trust, mutual respect, and a shared responsibility to address global and domestic challenges. With this being the world’s longest border, it’s crucial we remain vigilant in addressing emerging threats and challenges. The advancement of this legislation brings us one step closer to ensuring the dependability and safety of our shared border for the families and communities who live on both sides.”

The Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act mandates an updated northern border threat analysis every three years starting on September 2, 2025. This analysis will include an assessment of apprehension changes at the northern border, focusing on recent trends in both volume and demographics at the sector level. Additionally, by September 2, 2026, and every five years thereafter, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must update its Northern Border Strategy.

The legislation also implements a 2019 recommendation from the U.S. Government Accountability Office for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to develop performance measures assessing program effectiveness. This aims to ensure that resources and strategies are rigorously measured and continuously improved to meet dynamic security needs.

Cramer's role in founding the ACES Caucus with U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) in June 2023 highlights ongoing cooperation between the U.S. and Canada. Earlier this year, Cramer and King introduced a resolution reaffirming their commitment to mutual economic and national security interests.