WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week, Representatives Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), and LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) introduced the bipartisan CBP Canine Home Kenneling Pilot Act, establishing a pilot program within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (“CBP”) Office of Field Operations to allow handlers to kennel their working canines at home rather than in a contracted third-party facility.
Currently, canines working in CBP Field Operations at ports of entry are kenneled at contracted third-party facilities. This legislation directs the CBP to establish a pilot program to determine whether home kenneling would be beneficial to both the canines and their handlers.
“CBP canines and their handlers are on the front lines of protecting our country and keeping our communities safe,” said Congressman Rob Menendez. “It would seem to be common sense – and in keeping with the practices of law enforcement agencies across the country – that it is in the best interest of both the canine and its handler to remain together even after their shifts are complete. I’m grateful to my colleagues for joining me in moving this legislation forward.”
“I’m proud to support this common-sense pilot program that prioritizes the well-being of CBP’s highly trained canines and their handlers, while enhancing operational efficiency,” said Congressman Luttrell. “With proper training, oversight, and regular progress reports to Congress, this program will give us the data needed to make informed decisions that benefit CBP’s frontline personnel and strengthen our nation’s security.”
“Our bipartisan bill to establish a canine home kenneling pilot program provides a commonsense solution that will benefit both the dogs and their handlers,” said Congresswoman McIver. “The pilot program will increase efficiency and wellbeing of canines on the frontlines, like it has done for other agencies at DHS. I’m proud to join my colleagues to support and improve the livelihood of the people and canines at the forefront of our national security.”
“Giving CBP Canine Enforcement Officers the choice to kennel their canine partners at home is an idea that came directly from NTEU members, and we are grateful to Reps. Menendez, Luttrell, and McIver, who heard their concerns and introduced the CBP Canine Home Kenneling Pilot Act,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union. “Canine Enforcement Officers who work at the ports have reported substandard conditions at their local kennels, endangering the dogs’ health and job performance. We think CBP Officers should have the option to home kennel, just like other agencies with the Department of Homeland Security, and we strongly urge Congress to enact this law on behalf of the law enforcement officers who work at the nation’s airports, seaports and land-based ports of entry.”
