Bill would block feds from closing southern ports of entry

U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) have introduced a bill that would prohibit the closing of ports of entry to commerce due to the migrant crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The proposed "Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act" would prevent the Department of Homeland Security from diverting U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff from commercial ports of entry to help process migrants attempting to enter the United States from Mexico.

The bill follows the Biden administration’s decision to close two rail crossings at the southern border on two occasions last year due to the influx of migrants seeking to cross into the United States.

Joining Scott and Cruz in introducing the bill were Sens. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Marsha Blackburn. (R-Tenn.).

"As policymakers work to address the unprecedented humanitarian crisis at the border, it is critical to also protect our supply chain, American businesses and communities by keeping goods flowing between the U.S. and Mexico. Sen. Cruz’s bill would help ensure safe, secure freight movements continue unimpeded across the integrated North American rail network," Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies said in a press release.

The American Trucking Association, National Feed and Grain Association, North American Export Grain Association and Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association also expressed support for the legislation.

The full text of the bill can be read here.