Glacier Country News

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - On June 9, 2023, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke requested the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Executive Assistant Commissioner Pete Flores to expand hours of operation at ports of entry in Montana and other northern states to, at a minimum, match the operating hours with their adjacent Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) ports. Zinke and his colleagues also asked CBP to provide a response within 30 days from receiving the letter.

“All three branches of the United States government have acknowledged that the pandemic is over – so why is the CBP not returning to pre-pandemic business?” Zinke said. “Montana’s ports expand access both sides of the border rely on. With mix-matched times, we’re fumbling the ball and creating unneeded confusion for Montanans. Whether they are carrying out business that drives our economy or just visiting family - they deserve consistency. I’ve got colleagues on both sides of the isle and in both chambers ready to give CBP the staff and resources needed to whip our ports back into pre-pandemic shape.”

Zinke continued, “Access across the border is important for our economy and our sense of community. Towns like Eureka, Columbia Falls and Babb have many cross-border families and business owners. Having reliable, continuous access ensures folks can see their family and run their businesses.” 

Joining Congressman Zinke in the letter to CBP are Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), James Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jon Tester (D-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), and U.S. Congressmen Russ Fulcher (R-ID), Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), and Matt Rosendale (R-MT).

Click here to read the letter.

Original source can be found here.