Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Continuing High-Quality Evaluations of Concerning and Known Persons of Interest through National Training Updates (CHECKPOINT) Act, introduced by Senators Rick Scott and Kyrsten Sinema, has successfully passed the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC). This bipartisan bill aims to strengthen the U.S. Border Patrol's checkpoint and secondary inspection sites by implementing regular updates to drug seizure data collection categories, reporting requirements, and responsibilities.

The CHECKPOINT Act addresses the pressing issue of fentanyl smuggling across the southern border and into American communities. Senator Rick Scott expressed his concern, stating, "It's heart-wrenching and terrifying that fentanyl continues to flow across our southern border and into U.S. communities where it takes more lives every single day." He emphasized the importance of taking action to protect American families from the dangers of this deadly drug.

The legislation focuses on making necessary updates to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection training and procedures of the Checkpoint Program Management Office. By doing so, it aims to enhance the seizure of drugs from criminals before they can harm communities. Senator Scott expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support the bill has received, stating, "I won't stop fighting for this bill's full passage so that we may take another step toward ending the deadly fentanyl smuggling happening at our border."

Senator Kyrsten Sinema, co-sponsor of the CHECKPOINT Act, highlighted the significance of the bill in combating dangerous human and drug smuggling at Arizona's border. She remarked, "Our bipartisan bill delivers real solutions...and is now one step closer to becoming law - and one step closer to bringing Arizona families peace of mind."

The CHECKPOINT Act encompasses several key provisions to strengthen the management and operations of the Checkpoint Program Management Office. It will codify the office and require an accountable Assistant Chief of Border Patrol to clarify roles, responsibilities, and necessary actions. Additionally, the legislation mandates regular coordination between the Checkpoint Program Management Office, Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Border Patrol Offices that support checkpoint operations.

To ensure effective data collection, the CHECKPOINT Act requires regular updates to seizure collection data categories. It also mandates the development of a data collection plan with goals and milestones for improving checkpoint data collection and addressing any identified issues. The bill further necessitates the reporting of data on the use of tools such as the Border Enforcement Secondary Tool and license plate reader technology to document information about secondary inspections and checkpoints.

As part of its oversight and accountability measures, the CHECKPOINT Act requires an annual report to the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and the House Homeland Committee. This report will outline the data collected, steps taken to implement the bill's provisions, and actions undertaken to ensure proper oversight of the Checkpoint Program Management Office.

With the CHECKPOINT Act now advancing to the Senate floor for consideration, Senators Scott and Sinema are hopeful that this legislation will contribute to the fight against drug smuggling and protect American communities.