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H.R. 1684, The Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (177 comments ↓)
H.R. 1684 would authorize appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for fiscal year 2008.
Detailed Summary
Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 - <b>Title I: Authorization of Appropriations</b> - (Sec. 101) Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for FY2008.
<b>Title II: Policy and Management Improvements</b> - (Sec. 201) Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (HSA) to replace provisions establishing within DHS a Directorate of Border and Transportation Security with provisions establishing a Directorate for Policy, headed by an Under Secretary for Policy, which shall include: (1) the Office of the Private Sector; (2) the Victim Assistance Officer; (3) the Tribal Security Officer; and (4) the Border Community Liaison Officer.
Makes the Under Secretary for Policy the principal policy advisor to the Secretary of Homeland Security (the Secretary). Directs the Under Secretary: (1) acting through the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Policy and Development, to ensure that all departmental policies, programs, and activities appropriately consider the needs of and impact upon children; and (2) to report to the House and Senate homeland security committees (the committees) on activities undertaken and the resulting improvement in security for children, schools, and other child-centered facilities.
(Sec. 202) Includes among DHS's chief operating officers the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Procurement Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Capital Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, and Chief Security Officer. Directs: (1) the Secretary to delegate to such officers direct authority over their respective counterparts in component agencies; and (2) the chief operating officers in component agencies to coordinate activities with the heads of their respective agencies.
(Sec. 203) Directs the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Policy, to conduct a comprehensive examination of DHS, to be known as the Comprehensive Homeland Security Review, in FY2009, with a subsequent review in the first fiscal year in which there begins the first presidential term of a new administration. Requires the Secretary in each review to: (1) include a DHS Strategy that is consistent with the most recent National Strategy for Homeland Security prescribed by the President; (2) define sufficient personnel and appropriate organizational structure, and to identify a budget plan, acquisition strategy, procurement process, and any other requirements and resources, that are necessary to provide for the successful execution of the full range of missions called for in the DHS Strategy. Requires the Secretary to report on each review to the committees and the President.
(Sec. 204) Lists qualifications of the Under Secretary for Management. Requires the Secretary to name an individual who meets such qualifications within 90 days after this Act's enactment.
(Sec. 205) Urges the consolidation of DHS and its key component headquarters on the West Campus of St. Elizabeth's Hospital as expeditiously as possible, with the agencies involved bearing costs for which they are responsible.
(Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary, in each fiscal year budget requested for DHS, to include a separate line item for expenditures by the Office of Counternarcotics Enforcement.
(Sec. 207) Designates the Director of that Office as the primary representative of DHS on all entities whose purpose is to coordinate DHS counternarcotics enforcement activities with other federal, state, or local agencies.
(Sec. 208) Requires the Secretary to ensure that the Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs has adequate authority to ensure that counterparts in component agencies of DHS adhere to the laws, rules, and departmental policies that the Assistant Secretary is responsible for implementing.
<b>Title III: Oversight Improvements </b>- (Sec. 301) Directs the Inspector General of DHS to: (1) review each contract action related to DHS's Secure Border Initiative having a value greater than $20 million to determine compliance with applicable cost requirements, performance objectives, program milestones, requirements for inclusion of small, minority, and women-owned business, and timelines; and (2) complete a review within 60 days after initiation of the action and upon the conclusion of the performance of the contract. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Inspector General to expeditiously refer to the Secretary or other appropriate DHS official information related to improper conduct or wrongdoing for purposes of evaluating whether to suspend or debar the contractor.
(Sec. 302) Requires: (1) the Chief Financial Officer to establish the position of Authorization Liaison Officer to provide timely budget and other financial information to the committees; and (2) the Authorization Liaison Officer to report directly to the Chief Financial Officer.
(Sec. 303) Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary for operations of the Office of the Inspector General. Permits an Inspector General to authorize staff to use authorized funds to assist the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, at the Center's request, by conducting reviews of inactive case files that the Inspector General has reason to believe involve a child or possible offender located outside the United States and by developing recommendations for further investigations.
(Sec. 304) Directs the Secretary to actively consult with the committees and keep them fully and currently informed regarding all activities and responsibilities within their jurisdictions. Requires the submission of the Coast Guard Mission Review Report to the committees (but no longer to the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee).
<b>Title IV: Procurement Policy and Resources Improvements</b> - (Sec. 401) Directs: (1) the Chief Procurement Officer to provide homeland security procurement training to acquisition employees; and (2) the Secretary to establish a Council on Procurement Training.
(Sec. 402) Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Chief Procurement Officer, to appoint annuitants in procurement offices to support DHS's acquisition capabilities and enhance contract management throughout DHS, subject to a specified certification requirement.
(Sec. 403) Requires the Secretary, in awarding a contract, to consider the contractor's past performance based on a required review. Directs the Secretary: (1) before awarding a contract, to require the contractor to submit specified information regarding the performance of government and private sector contracts; and (2) contact the relevant official who administered or oversaw each contract performed by that contractor during the previous five-year period.
(Sec. 404) Requires: (1) the Chief Procurement Officer to conduct an independent review of any procurement of goods or services by DHS to ensure compliance with the Buy American Act; and (2) the Secretary to require disclosure of whether the offeror is owned or controlled by a foreign person.
(Sec. 405) Requires the offeror for any contract to provide goods or services to DHS to submit: (1) an attestation that discloses any substantial role the offeror, its employees, or any corporate parent or subsidiary may have played in creating a solicitation, request for proposal, statement of work, or statement of objectives; (2) a description of the safeguards used to ensure that precautions were in place to prevent the offeror from receiving information through such role that could be used to provide an undue advantage in submitting an offer; and (3) a written certification as to whether the offeror is in default or delinquent on any tax payment to the federal government.
(Sec. 406) Directs the Chief Procurement Officer to: (1) submit a report to the committees that identifies each DHS component that awarded less that 3% of its total value of contracts in FY2006 to qualified HUBZone small business concerns and small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans or less than 5% to socially or economically disadvantaged small business concerns and small business concerns owned and controlled by women; and (2) develop, submit to the committees, and implement an action plan for achieving those objectives.
(Sec. 407) Requires uniforms, protective gear, badges, and identification cards of DHS personnel to be manufactured in the United States, with exceptions.
(Sec. 408) Directs the Secretary to establish within DHS's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization and publicize a Mentor-Protege Program, which shall motivate and encourage prime contractors that are large businesses to provide developmental assistance to specified small business concerns.
(Sec. 409) Prohibits the Secretary from conducting a reduction in force or furlough of the workforce of the Federal Protective Service until: (1) the Comptroller General submits a report requested by the the Senate homeland security committee on the source of shortfalls at the Service; and (2) the committees have conducted hearings on such report.
<b>Title V: Workforce and Training Improvements</b> - (Sec. 501) Grants law enforcement officer status for retirement purposes to currently employed Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who retire or leave within five years of enactment. Sets forth provisions governing individual and government contributions for prior qualified service. Provides that nothing in this section shall result in any individual being involuntarily separated on account of provisions of any retirement system relating to the mandatory separation of a law enforcement officer based on age or age and service combined.
Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) conduct a comprehensive review of the retirement system for law enforcement officers employed by the federal government, including all employees categorized as law enforcement officers for retirement purposes and any other federal employees performing law enforcement duties; (2) review relevant legislative proposals introduced over the 10 previous years and consult with law enforcement agencies and employee representatives; and (3) report to Congress on the findings by August 1, 2007.
(Sec. 502) Directs: (1) the Chief Human Capital Officer of DHS to transmit to the committees and the Comptroller General a plan to address any under representation of minorities in the various categories of civil service employment within DHS; and (2) the Comptroller General, within one year after receiving the plan, to assess measures being implemented and the likelihood that the plan will succeed.
(Sec. 503) Amends the 2002 Supplemental Appropriations Act for Further Recovery From and Response To Terrorist Attacks on the United States to extend through December 31, 2008, the authorization for annuitants employed by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
(Sec. 504) Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Commissioner of CBP, for the purpose of accelerating CBP's ability to secure the borders, to appoint annuitants to positions in CBP, subject to specified limitations.
(Sec. 505) Directs the Secretary to establish a plan to address the recruitment and retention challenges faced by CBP that includes: (1) an increase in the pay percentage differentials to Border Patrol agents in certain high-cost areas; and (2) the establishment of a recruitment incentive for Border Patrol agents, a retention plan (including the payment of bonuses to agents for every year of service after the first two years of service), a mechanism whereby agents can transfer from one location to another after the first two years of service in their initial duty location, and quarterly goals for the recruitment of new agents. Directs the Secretary to report to the committees on whether the quarterly goals were met and on the status of recruitment efforts and attrition rates among Border Patrol Agents.
(Sec. 506) Limits reimbursements relating to certain detailees assigned to DHS to the highest rate allowable for a member of the Senior Executive Service.
(Sec. 507) Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a DHS-wide review of security clearance and suitability review procedures for DHS employees and contractors, as well as for individuals in state and local government agencies and private sector entities with a need to receive classified information; and (2) take all necessary steps to strengthen DHS's security screening policies, including consolidating the security clearance investigative authority at DHS headquarters.
(Sec. 508) Establishes within DHS a Chief Security Officer, who shall have responsibility for overall DHS-wide security activities, including issuing and confiscating credentials, controlling access to and disposing of classified and sensitive but unclassified materials, controlling access to sensitive areas and Secured Compartmentalized Intelligence Facilities, and communicating with other government agencies on the status of security clearances and security clearance applications.
(Sec. 509) Directs the Secretary, acting through the Chief Human Capital Officer, to consider implementing recommendations set forth in the Homeland Security Advisory Council Culture Task Force Report of January 2007.
(Sec. 510) Amends HSA to require the Administrator of the Homeland Security Education Program at DHS to use curricula modeled on existing DHS reviewed Master's degree curricula in homeland security, including asynchronous distance learning and video conferencing.
(Sec. 511) Repeals the authority of DHS to establish a separate personnel system.
(Sec. 512) Authorizes the Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center of DHS to select appropriate federal employees other than law enforcement officers to serve as instructors of non-law enforcement classes.
(Sec. 513) Prohibits any employee from being terminated, demoted, or discriminated against in the terms or conditions of employment because the employee is absent or late as a result of serving as a volunteer firefighter or providing volunteer emergency medical services as part of a response to an emergency or major disaster. Excludes absences for which the employee: (1) is absent for more than 14 days per calendar year; (2) responds to an emergency or major disaster without being officially deployed in accordance with a coordinator national deployment system; or (3) fails to provide written verification within a reasonable period of time. Allows employers to: (1) reduce the employee's regular pay for such time as the employee is absent; and (2) require the employee to provide written verification from the supervising Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state, or local official. Requires such an employee to make a reasonable effort to notify his or her employer that he or she may be absent or late. Gives such an employee a private cause of action for discrimination which violates this Act.
Directs the Secretary of Labor to conduct a study of the impact that the requirements of this section could have on the employers of volunteer firefighters or individuals who provide volunteer emergency medical services and who may be called on to respond to an emergency or major disaster.
<b>Title VI: Biopreparedness Improvements</b> - (Sec. 601) Amends HSA to provide that DHS's Chief Medical Officer shall have the rank and title of Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs and Chief Medical Officer. Establishes within DHS an Office of Health Affairs, headed by such Officer. Expands that Officer's responsibilities to include leading DHS's medical care, public health, food, water, veterinary care, and agrosecurity and defense responsibilities and administering DHS's responsibilities for medical readiness.
(Sec. 602) Amends the Public Health Service Act to: (1) direct the Secretary to utilize existing, credible risk assessments; and (2) consider the completion of assessments and determinations of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents to facilitate the assessment of countermeasures that may address more than one agent and countermeasures that may address adverse health consequences that are common to exposure to different agents.
Directs the Secretary to complete determinations by December 31, 2007, and report on known chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents considered to be capable of significantly affecting national security.
Extends the authorization of appropriations through FY2009 for terror threat assessments under the security countermeasures program. Authorizes additional sums for FY2008 for purposes including conducting risk assessments when there are no existing risk assessments that the Secretary considers credible.
(Sec. 603) Requires the Secretary to conduct a joint study (with the Secretaries of Defense and Health and Human Services) and report on the staffing and training requirements for pending capital programs to construct biodefense laboratories at Biosafety Levels 3 and 4 or to expand current biodefense laboratories to such levels.
(Sec. 604) Directs: (1) the Secretary to establish a National Biosurveillance Integration Center (NBIC) to enhance the government's capability to rapidly identify, characterize, and localize a biological event by integrating and analyzing data related to human health, animals, plants, food, and the environment; and (2) the Director to develop, operate, and maintain an integrated network to detect a biological event that presents a risk to the United States.
Status of the Legislation
Latest Major Action: 5/11/2007: Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
Points in Favor
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Points Against
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Visitor Comments
George
There comes a time when enough is enough. I feel it is time America just puts the brakes on for some time and re-evaluate where we are at. Furthermore we as a notion MUST think of our own people and what is good for them as well. I feel that our leadership in many ways has lost touch with reality and what the American people want. I know one thing we DO NOT want, and that is more citizens in our country that we have to support on our social systems.
Thank you,
George
Tony
We need our CBPO's ,who perform law enforcement, are our first line of defense against terrorists, drug smugglers, and other criminals, to have law enforcement benefits. CBPO's protect our borders, enforce the laws of America, are trained at a Federal law enforcement center, and are required to carry weapons. If that doesn't qualify you for law enforcement benefits, I don't know what does.
Mark
Officers of Customs and Border Protection are law enforcement officers of the United States. They carry firearms, have arrest authority and are the first line of defense for terrorists and weapons of mass destruction entering this country. They have high hiring standards and must complete a physically demanding "Law Enforcement" academy prior to starting work. Once on the job they must maintain a high level of competence with the use of firearms and must remain current and enforce countless federal laws, rules and regulations. Unlike many other "federal Law enforcement" officers who wear plain clothes, Customs officers are in a recognizable uniform on a daily basis. The Customs positions are stressful and officers work weekends,irregular shifts in often harsh environments throughout their careers to keep our nation safe. Give them the recognition and benefits that other law federal law enforcement officers, firefighters, and congressional members have. They deserve it.
CBPO
Thank you Tony and Mark!
Sean
As a current Supervisory CBP Officer, I can tell you first hand that this coverage is not only right but a strong necessity. With a huge attrition rate, Congress needs to sit up and ask the question, "Why is everyone leaving?" My fellow officers need this support and need the recogintion so duly deserving of this position. It needs to be understood that we are the first line of defense along with our current brethern CBP Border Patrol. Again, please understand the importance of this bill and what effects it will have on this country.
James
Good comment Sean. We are losing officers in massive quantities to other federal agencies with LEO status. We make more arrests and seizures than any other federal agency; therefore, we deserve LEO status also. CBPO
Joe
If the Government and the people of this country want to havethe best possible security for this country, this bill is a must, and this is without the law enforcement coverage. The coverage is an overdue fairness for CBP officers. The hours they put in on a daily basis, and the constant people they inspect causes them to get burned out and want to leave for other jobs. If the coverage passes you will see a higher morale and a higher retention rate.
Steve
LEO coverage for CBPO's and legacy Customs Inspectors have been talked about for over 20 years. Granted, I have not seen this much activity before, however, I really wonder if NTEU is really backing this or is presenting lip service. Other bills have come and have been defeated. I have been an NTEU member, but frankly, I will believe the coverage when I see it. Remember though, for those CBP Officers, if we do get it, be prepared to pay into it for the years you already have vested. Kind of like paying your military time. I really hope we get, but like I said, I really, really doubt it.
carlos
A soon to be retired officer, mentioned that when he first started with the agency. There was talk about LEO coverage in a large meeting. Well, a soon to be retired officer at the time stood up and said, DONT GIVE ME THAT CRAP.. " you have been telling me this since I first started off"
Now take it that he has been in the service 30yrs, and the previous officer 30 yr. so that makes 60yr.. I hope 30yrs go bye and I dont have to mention this story to a rookie.
Jeff
What will it take before CBPO's finally acHieve the status they deserve as an official LEO? Will it take some suicide bomber blowing up a bridge and possibly decimating hundreds of Officers, enough is enough, CBP's arrest thousands of individuals annually AND put their lives on the line daily. Give CBPO's what they have earned, retirement as an LEO.
NO NO NO
too much money
too many new fees, taxes costs
stop now stop today
enough is enough
don't care if you are 'worthy'
the ones before you are not worthy
remove all these perks now & allow the middle class to breathe without another ONE HUNDRED TWENTY DOLLARS stolen from them
CHARLES
120$ PER PERSON
GET IT FROM THE SALARY INCREASES OF JOHN MCCAIN & TED KENNEDY
NO TO THIS SPENDING
Lily
No more US Republican Guard.
No more stormtroopers with guns menacing citizens.
No more erosion of Freedom.
You want to stop terrorists from attaching the US? Stop Making the US a Target.
Diplomacy Before Destruction.
Lily
Dan
Is the the money that's going to the Berlin wa..I mean the American protection device? Is this going under the rubric of "National Security" as well?
carlos
LILY? Come on... how can you say that... Your probably one of those travelers that failed to declare her dog food, and it was taken away.. Let it go!!!! it was just dog food????
Carlos
WHAT DO WE WANT!!!!! LEO!!!!!
WHEN DO WE WANT IT!!!!! NOW!!!
SI SE PUEDE!!!!!!!
SI SE PUEDE!!!!!!!
IF ILLEGALS CAN SAY IT WE ALSO CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tim
@Dan: yes, I would probably place customs officers in the category of "National Security" since they are the ones saying who and what gets into our country.
@Lily: I'm just hoping you're a troll and don't believe such a thing. It's great to be idealistic but it is also pretty unreasonable. The things that make us targets are also the same ones that keep our economy running and they don't just make the rich richer, but they also keep much of our poorer citizens above the poverty line. Should we perhaps be a more pacifistic country like france? Tens of thousands are rioting in France because of their rampant unemployment and because a socialist didn't get elected in a fair, democratic election. They've been the focus of terrorist acts just like any other nation. Every country has and simply trying to be a 'nicer' country isn't going to change anything.
DFW Stamp Monkey
We don't need 6C coverage. Doesn't take much strength to stamp a passport. CBP academy is full of 60-65 year old trainees.
Scott
DFW must work at an airport. The rest of CBP does actual law enforcement work.
II George
DFW Stamp monkey. I don't know what to say to you. I'd call you brother but that would be a stretch given your lack of self respect and low self esteem. You also seem to have issue with "age" a clear violation of EEO law. Are you really sure you want to post such comments on the internet.
Now on the subject of cost I challenege the cost of a 120 per person because our agency is funded nearly entirely through user and port fees collected.
II George
LEO status according to reports will actually bring money to the government read Gov report extract!!
We estimate that enacting the legislation would increase revenues by $19 million over the
2008-2012 period and $46 million over the 2008-2017 period by allowing Customs and
Border Protection officers to increase contributions to their retirement funds. Enacting
the bill could affect direct spending, but we estimate that any such effects would not be
significant.
Sean
It's nice to know that some of the people interacting with this forum understands how this bill is designed. On another note, the bill paased in the house with 69% of the vote showing that it wasn't all along party lines. The tragedy in all of this, our own president doesn't think we are Law Enforcement officers. Today, is a sad day for CBPO's but let's see how it does in the Senate. Nothing would please me more to show that we are indeed worthy of the coverage. Thank you Congress in recognizing that! To those of you who think we are not, I invite you to come down to the southwest border and just hang out. On another note, Mr. President we are the guys in blue. Please don't confuse us with the guys in green who are already considered law enforcement officers. CBP Border Patrol and CBPO's do the same job with one exception, our job applies technical skill along with a lot of hands on law enforcement.
Just Do It...
What we do take a lot of energy, heart, passion and will to survive. Unfortunately, we do not get the benefit of being seen as the Po..Po. Because we continue to ride around with vehicles that look like the Po..Po.., wear uniforms that look like the Po..Po, and act like the Po..Po. We are the protectors of our Nations borders. The ones who give up our weekends and work long hours and have to explain to our children why Daddy and or Mommy have to go to work on their Birthday to keep our Nation safe. Put Police on our Patch and Vehicles and you will raise the Fog. Then and only then will you appreciate the sacrifice we make to ensure our Nation's security... for security is best when Perception is met. The only thing separating us from that goal is recognition for the cost we pay as Knights of the Nation.
Just Do It...
As a Post Script, when your brothers and sisters and BLUE see you as an equal, there is no doubt we are.
CBPOE / Miami
DFW Stamp Monkey is the prime example why our agency was held back all these years from recognition and LEO status. Not everyone sits in a booth all day, unless by choice. I entered in 2002 and have worked and almost all areas of enforcement within CBP. Anti-terrorism, narcotics, passenger analytical units, and basic inspectional functions with success. Keep your job interesting, branch out, work up a sweat and perform other LEO functions and then you would realize why CBPO’s deserve 6C.
Jarhead CBP
The Stampmonkey in Ft. Worth is obviously a 10 percenter and his or her performance probably shows it. I AM a law enforcement officer! I don't need congress, or Ted Kennedy, or even President Bush to tell me that. This country is being sold by both parties. rebublicans are selling it to the big corporations, and the democrats are GIVING it to the illegals. One day we will wake up and wonder what happened. Rome fell almost over night because of the exact same reasons. These CBP Officers work harder than any officer in any other agency. Mr. Bush asked us to do this job, now is is not willing to pay us to do it. We are simply being screwed!
Striker
CBP Officers are not LEO's!! There main function is inspectional and protection. They never leave the airport or border checkpoint. They don't execute warrants, they dont go looking for criminals at thier houses, places of employment, and most of the people they deal with are law abiding citizens and not criminals.
CBP IS LEO
CBP doesn't have to go looking, the bad guys come to us. And when we find the dope or NCIC's or child abusers or porn freaks, the other LEO agencies are happy to come and "take over", that doesn't even mention the countless illegals we refuse and return on a daily basis. Our "inspectional" functions provide valuable intel to many of these other LEO agencies and is an invaluable tool in the fight against terrorism. We deserve to be covered. As for the money, 120 bucks isn't so bad, if you consider the cost of training a CBP officer then having him/her leave less then a year later, to go to another agency (who benefits from that training), then having to train yet another and so on and so on. If we provide the officers a little incentive to stay, I am sure in the long run, money will be saved and quality officers will remain in a very important place, at our nations borders.
ExNYCBP
The bill was read twice by the Senate and sent to committee last week. How long before the Senate actually votes on HR 1684? Sometimes bills are sent to committee to die....
You still need the Senate to pass it by two thirds so it survives bush's veto. I really hope you guys get 6c- I worked at JFK for over 3 years and I think it;s long overdue.
James
The president do not consider CBPO's law enforcement. We are America's Front Line. When there is a war or any fight a smart person would put their best up front with all the necessary tools to win! Having said, we are the ones stopping illegals, illegal drugs, weapons, terrorist, and weapons of mass destruction from entering into our country. Therefore, give us what we deserve!
??Striker??
Striker, you must be one of the well deserving Prison Guards, that get LEO status for babysitting the criminals that we catch.
James
Striker, you do not get any kudos for being jealous. Have you or were you ever a CBPO? If not, I rest my case. Also for your FYI, we have served warrants at houses without any other law enforcement agents. Not only that, but we also have helped other law enforcement agents in raids and stakeouts. Therefore, know the facts before speaking against LEO for CBPO's. Besides, we enforce more regulations and laws, make more arrests, drug seizures, apprehend and detain criminals than any other law enforcement agency in the US.
James
Oh, I'm sorry STRIKER, and last but not least, we also DEPORT more illegals (criminals or improper documents) than any other law enforcement agency. Having said, I rest my case once more.
Tony
Striker,
Do you realize that most people the Police deal with are law abiding citizens also. Should we remove their LEO status also.
LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER -
CBPO's enforce the laws of America and they are officers.
CBP is "VIRGO"
Airport STAMP MONKEES deserve "6c" as much as MAIL CARRIERS!!!!!
Left index, right index, NEXT!!!!
CocoWilly
In addition to the previously mentioned reasons for justifying 6c coverage, President Bush needs to sign this bill for his own party's good as well. Unions are notorious for pushing Democrat leaders for office. Putting politics aside, this bill is necessary for the retention of CBPOs who work hard to protect the citizens of this country - it's only right they get fair compensation. Come on George W, show the country what Republicans are made of - it will pay off in the long run.
LandBorder
A look at all the Safety Alerts and Bolos we receive would change some minds. Besides, LEO is the only way to retain CBPOs. Job retention is horrible.
Young Buck
I joined CBP a little before the merge and I was damn proud to be a Customs Officer. With a previous law enforcement background, I believe CBPO's deserve LEO status just for the simple fact that we are armed officers that enforce laws. But since the merge, CBPO's were given more duties. We now perform Immigration, Custom, and Agriculture duties. We got more work and now have to be proficient in all fields with no incentives. This is why we are losing all our officers, our good officers. The younger ones to positions that are covered and the older ones to retirement as soon as they qualify. In the short time I was in I have only seen the number of good officers leaving CBP increase and the quality of new hires decrease. So in conclusion, I believe this new agency is destined to fail if we can't retain or recruit good officers. To all my CBPO brothers and sisters, not only do we deserve 6c, we NEED 6c.
Fred
To "CBP is "VIRGO"-
Our brothers and sisters who spend long hours in the primary area deserve 6c as much as the rest of CBP. They are highly trained and spent many months away from their families earning the title of "Officer". You obviously are oblivious to the multple "other" responsibilities we are entrusted. These include ENFORCING LAWS pertaining to cargo, currency, terrorism, maritime operations, contraband, agriculture and immigration violations. That's not even all of them. We are law enforcement officers and should be treated as such.
Young Buck
Looks like the bill passed but short the votes of being VETO PROOF. To the CBPO Family, keep your heads up. I believe we will get 6c in the near future. In the mean time, continue the great work, stay safe, and thanks for sticking around and defending the home front.
Ground rat
Its a shame that all the work we do gets passed off as nothing, most people dont see the endless stress we incure, the long hours (16hrs a shift), the havoc it caused family life, while they sit at home and sleep at night we are busy working to allow them that right. We make the big cases that other agencies get credit for, everyone in the process on the criminal gets loaw enforcement to include the prison guards but who does that criminal the one who out him there "US"
CBP is "VIRGO"
Fred;
You convinced me. CBPO's at AIRPORTS really do deserve "6c."
Especially the 400lbs(LITERALLY) lazy douchebag who ordered me to "PLACE THE PASSPORT IN MY HAND" at JFK.
There should be a physical fitness test for "6c." All the fat slobs and grandmothers with stamps do NOT deserve LEO STATUS. I don't care how many 'other things' they MAY be eligible to do. STAMPING PASSPORTS is NOT Law Enforcement.
'6c' for AIRPORT CBPO's would DIMINISH the meaning of LEO for the rest of us that do REAL POLICE work.
You guys get DOUBLE TIME for O.T. so quit the crying about "16hr shifts." GS 11 CBPO's can easily make 90k a yr. I do NOT feel sorry for you STAMP MONKEY'S!!!
Robert
Why is it when the subject of 6c comes up everyone to include president Bush claims we don't rate? I myself work the southern border and have been subjected to several encounters that warranted me to pull my pepper spray, baton and ultimately my weapon. On other occassions I have worked as a CBPO(e) formerly known as a senior inspector. Presenting cases for officers who caught the formerly deported ag felon who had been deported for raping a 14 year old child.
So, for those of you who keep slapping your jaws and remain clueless, ask yourself why several congressman have come to the border because all along they thought we were border patrol.
Mr. President get it together, your ignorance is going to harm national security because every port of entry, sea port and airport are losing valuable officers every day. Until this bill gets signed into law, I have to leave my job every night wondering if we let one slip by because of the lack of manpower. Sleep well Mr. President.
Lil' Bush
Quit ya griping,I got bigger problems than giving you peasants a raise. MAYBE next year I'll authorize a work visa for immigrants who would LIKE to stamp passports, because we all know immigrants do the jobs americans don't want to do and it sounds like none of you whiners want to stamp passports. I will start out using mexican day labor on the land border, english is not needed there. After that once all of the US is required to be bi-lingual we can give every CBP job to illegal, I mean undocumented immigrants.
VIVA LA RAZA
P.S. Vote for my nephew in 2012, he's half mexican
Lil' Bush?
Read all the comments and know all CBPO's duties before you respond! This blog is about CBPO's getting 6c status. You look like you have no idea what your talking about, you must really be the president. Please comment and respond all you want, you already lost face and the discussion. Ignorance is bliss!
I just want to thank our nations gaurdians for doing the job they do. They don't HAVE to do it but make the sacrifice to protect our nation every day. CBPO's, you are appreciated and I believe you should be covered.
Irate Traveler
I do NOT believe CBP "Officers" should get this so called status they seem to want. I travel often and have not ONCE been greeted cordially at the airport. NEVER RECEIVED THE OBLIGATORY "WELCOME HOME." You "Officers" seem to be mainly old, fat and angry. Kind of like TSA Screeners with guns!!! HA,HA,HA,HA,HA!!!!!!!!!! NOW STAMP MY PASSPORT B*TCH!!! HURRY UP I HAVE A CONNECTING FLIGHT. LOSER CIVIL SERVANTS.
Irate Traveler?
For your info CBP Officers do have other duties than so called "stamping passports". CBP Officers also man the land borders and the seaports. "Stamping passports" consists of less than 10% of CBP Officers and their duties, the other 90% consists of the other CBP Officers performing law enforcement duties such as drug interdiction, anti-terrorism, trade enforcement, finding & deporting illegals, detecting and seizing contraband such as child pornography, smuggled currency, intelectual property rights, and last but not least the several hundred pounds of narcotics ranging from cocaine to marijuana CBP Officers discover ON A DAILY BASIS, which you won't see JUST passing through an airport. CBP Officers has the record for the highest numbers of arrests and drug seizures in the nation. Take 5 minutes and type in Customs & Border Protection Officer on the web and see what you get.
Irate Traveler??
These Stamp Monkeys have broader authority and enforce more laws than any single Federal Law Enforcement agency. "Welcome Home LOSER". I can almost guarantee they say that evertime to you, at least think it.
Irate Traveler
Yea, EVERTIME they say that to me!
Typical Gov't employee; semi-retarded loud mouth. You must be a GS 11 step 5- such a fluent writer.
Now, I would LOVE IT if ANY of you would have the BALLS to call me or any passenger a LOSER while you're in that little booth with your big scary stamp. COWARD.
Irate Traveler?
Now we all can see why you are this way. It is very clear now and you make it very apparent by hating so much. You tried to get a job with CBP and got denied. Admit it! Sorry pal, maybe if you change you attitude and get yourself a little more self respect, maybe CBP will hire you to clean their toilets after a bowel movement exam. Everytime you comment you look more & more like a moron who clearly doesn't know what their talking about. Speaking of coward, when did you put your life on the line and serve this country? Many of these CBP Officers you're commenting to are combat vetrans of the armed forces, many of which are serving in Iraq now. Shhhhh, before you embarass your self further!
Irate Traveler
"You tried to get a job with CBP and got denied."
ROTFLMAO!!!!
WHO THE HELL WANTS TO STAMP PASSPORTS??? YOU obviously couldn't get on the Police Dept. and had to SETTLE for CBP!
Being in a booth at an airport is hardly "putting your life on the line." YOU STUPID STAMP MONKEY.
Anyone who served in Iraq I have respect for and would HOPE they could get a better job than CBP "Officer." You guys do NOT deserve "6c"- your comments are proof of your ignorance. NOW SHUT UP, STAMP MY PASSPORT, and quit your crying.
Irate traveler?
You are very entertaining and I enjoy your comments, truly. FYI, I am a combat vetran and did 2 tours to the desert. I was also a police officer for several years and seized more contraband in a month as a CBP Officer than my police department did in a whole year. I just recieved a job offer as a criminal investigator/special agent(6c status) I qualified for the position based on my CBP Officer experience (for the last time, CBP Officers don't just stamp passports). I will continue to support CBP Officers if and when I decide to move on. Please get a clue, I rest my case.
Irate Traveler
Thank you for your service. I am happy to see you will be moving on to a position worthy of your experience.
It looks like you would be qualified for agent without any CBP experience. GOOD LUCK to you, stay safe and to all the STAMP MONKEES; get off craigs list and STAMP FASTER!!!!!!
Curious George
Is 6c worth it? CBP Officers get paid double time for over time. If tasked to work more than 8 hours or on days off CBP Officers get paid double, up to $35,000 a year and may retire after 30 years of service. If granted 6c status they would lose that over time. 6c will give CBP Officers LEO pay, 25% annual salary increase(around 15 thousand dollars, if that). Now, this means CBPO's will be on call and will have to work more than 8 hours or days off with the strong possibility of no over time pay, double time is gone. Yes, there is a 20 year retirement involved but working the airport, land border, or seaports 24-7 for twenty years with possibly no overtime? Not like the agents who already got 6c, CBP Officers always got work to do. Yes, in the long run it will save the tax payers and the government millions of dollars, but will CBP Officers get burnt out? Just curious.
Landborder
CBP Officers are already getting burned out---but that's due to the imcompetent management and empolyee shortage. You can have 6C with COPRA-- CBP senior or enforcement officers are under that system. Don't know how this bill is written though. Either way it will save taxpayers tons of money on the job retention alone-- which would also solve part of the burnout issue.
Curious George
Thank you. I also read revised budget plan online and noticed they mention giving LEO status to Border Patrol agents, don't they already have 6c?. I believe they meant CBP Officers and mistaken CBP Officers for BP Agents again.
6c for you and ME
All of DHS deserves 6c. TSA Officers should be included. We are the true FRONTLINE against terrorism! At least give us a shield to wear.
Take your LEGAL "20"
I hate my job. Even with LEO status I am still stuck in a booth stamping passports and having dirty, smelly passengers breath and cough in my face all day. CBPO position at my 'large northeastern airport' is horrible. FLETC was fun but then I get here and almost ZERO percent of what I learned is ENFORCED. MAYBE once a week I get the "custom's" side and have it a little easier. SO "IRATE TRAVELER" think I give a sh*t if you miss your flight? DROP DEAD.
cbpo/jfk
Before I get to what I want to say... What enforcement does TSA do? What authority does TSA have? Want to be recognized, wear your pants around your waist, and a shirt that fits... don't try to stop me with a prisoner my creds, and an AOA “A” port id. Try to speak like you are slightly educated. On your break SCREAMING into the phone, yes, others hear you cursing in uniform (because god forbid you put on a cover shirt). It does not look good... Now CBP deserves 6© even at airports, because there are fights, drugs, arrests, fraudulent documents, imposters, we serve warrants, interrogations, investigations, prosecutions, among other things. cont.
cbpo/jfk
When you have a foreign murderer in front of you coming as an imposter, he gets caught and tries to stab you and himself, and you need to protect yourself as well as the traveling public, let me know if we deserve it? How about the people that come here 8.5 months pregnant to drop a 12 inch 5 lb 3 oz anchor in the U.S.? Yes that happens and no they don’t have money or medical coverage... WE the tax payers pay for it free of charge. My brother a USC born here can’t afford his 2nd open heart surgery @ 25 years of age, but they get it all. CBP tries to prevent that from happening. I have gone on long enough people for more than 1 reason CBP deserves 6(c). Before you shoot it down, walk a mile in our shoes.
Sucios
All this CBP, Legacy Customs and Legacy Immigration bashing is quite amusing. All these people must have been stopped or fined or penalized for breaking THE LAW. Right, law that we uphold. The arrest that other agencies make are made because we stopped criminals at the borders. Where do you think field agents get their intel...through us. Us at the airport, land borders and seaports. And god forbid if it was to late and they dont want to come and pick up the warrants they issued. Yeah, I see how they deserve 6c more than we do. In the end, the criminals walk because they dont want to work....its late. Note that "left finger, right finger"; those are tools to catch wanted people, not to annoy passengers. That comment must have been issued by a foreigner, for we don't take prints of US citizens and residents. And if anyone who is bashing our duties as CBPO; try your attitude in other countries and see far you'd go.
TSA AGENT OF DOOM
to cbpo/jfk;
I has de othoratee to nots lets ya pass MY checkpont. HA HA. See ya in the foodcort. I have a HOMELAND SECURITY patch on my uniform also, sucker!
BORDER BADASS
I left the large northeastern airport for the border. Although there are many facets to CBP, I am Legacy INS all the way. At the large northeastern airport, I learned enforcement and have carried that to where I continue to work. So, although I left my 6C coverage for the border, I still enforce the law, as written. So, Mr. Irate traveler, please request entry at my bridge with so much as an untestable amount or residue, or maybe perhaps the same attitude you have displayed at the airports. The inside of the cell will be perfect for you, then its onward to county jail and then next morning one of the many county judges who always take a BITE OUT OF CRIME. Be my guest!! Come on down and try your luck, oh yeah and don't worry about your passport, it's probably photosubbed.
cbpo/jfk
To TSA AGENT OF DOOM
Check your SOP book... no you can’t stop me. And that gibberish is what I'm talking about. Looks like a high school dropout who passed the GED test by the skin of his teeth. You have that patch until you get caught stealing a pack of cigarettes, clown.
CBPO/JFK
Hey Striker,
Have you heard of our air/marine interdiction units? Hurricane katrina we were there check the pics on the website. We train the Iraqis to. We are in many different countries for many different reasons. Do your homework next time. 6(c) for CBP!
Sea Rat
I heard TSA funding got dropped off the bill! Sorry TSA, guess you all wasted or stole to much money last time or are just not worthy enough to be a part of DHS funding this year. Don't worry, well make sure we use your funding loss toward CBP Officers getting 6c! Mr. president the bill is now closer to the budget number you wanted. If you sign the bill you will reap the rewards later and see how much money the signing of the bill would save the goverment in the future. Thank you Congress and the Senate for recognizing CBP Officers as LEO's.
Sea Rat
Here's a online peek of the cost estimate the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has for HR 1684 dated June 19, 2007. Check out the REVENUES section.
http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/82xx/doc8263/hr1684.pdf
DHS OFFICER
TSA OFFICER. CBP OFFICER. Department of Homeland Security.
We are both OFFICERS. Show us some RESPECT or I WILL make you take your shoes off at the checkpoint and cry about the SOP to your gay supervisors!
Curiuos George
To DHS Officer:
Don't we all have to take off our shoes anyway, and I know several CBP Officer Supervisors who used the SOP to get a few TSA Officers with power trips like yours FIRED. Also majority of the TSA Officers that were lucky enough to become CBP Officers got fired after or before they started the job. Failed backgrounds, Failed the CBP Academy at FLETC, getting arrested off duty, excessive force, narcotics, theft, just some of the things I personally seen former TSA Officers get FIRED for. You ask for RESPECT, try treating other law enforcement personnel with RESPECT when they go through check points, whether their ON or OFF DUTY!
DHS OFFICER
Re; "Curious' George
You are GAY.
It really is Bi-curious isn't it?
You think you bad with ya "A" badge and gun. TSA at JFK is better than you CBP gumps.
cbpo/jfk
DHS OFFICER
Good luck with the shoe thing. Try stopping me and i will put cuffs on you before you start crying how sorry you were. lol
You are just as much of a clown as TSA Agent of doom lol, probably the same person. TSA agents arent even armed lol. TOOL!
DHS OFFICER?
You got something against gay people? Your an EEO disater waiting to happen (hope your not on a government computer or home computer). If so, I see you getting fired in the immediate future. Employees like you is why TSA can't get representation and one of the main reasons why TSA lost its budget. TSA is one of the least liked from law enforcement personnel around the nation because of employees like your self.
DHS OFFICER
"TSA is one of the least liked from law enforcement personnel"
Thank you for RECOGNIZING T-S-A!!
as LAW ENFORCEMENT. It is long over due.
I have nothing against gay people- just CBP homos who think they better then TSA Officers.
DHS OFFICER
You are very welcome because I consider "Mall Security OFFICER's" as Law Enforcement too! Forgive me, but what I meant to say is "TSA is one of the least liked BY law enforcement personnel..." And FYI, law enforcement is when you CARRY A FIREARM AND ENFORCE LAWS!!! Clearly what TSA DOES NOT DO!!!
DHS OFFICER?
DHS OFFICER:
I have to say this one more time.
You are very welcome because I consider "Mall Security" as Law Enforcement too! Forgive me, but I meant to say "TSA is one of the least liked BY law enforcement personnel..." And FYI, law enforcement is when you CARRY A FIREARM AND ENFORCE LAWS!!! Clearly what TSA DOES NOT DO!!!
Night Owl
DAMN, someone got served! 6c for CBP, Officers that is!
DHS OFFICER
I ain't scare of you fools. Come to my checkpoint at JFK and see who SERVES who. I dont needa FIREARM to enforce LAWS. TSA can smackdown any fat, old CBP gump anytime anywere.
Curious George
To DHS OFFICER:
What kind of smack down can you do? Make me take off my shoes if I'm OFF duty, that's as far as you'll get and if I am armed or in uniform you can't do JACK, I can simply bypass your precious check point. And what laws do you enforce? Please tell me. Don't you only follow directives? Please educate me and I'll educate you. Regarding your first sentence, there's no such word as "ain't" and you might want to add the letter d after the word "scare". I'm scared to read the rest, which explains why you could only get a job like TSA. For the record, CBP Officers have a United States Code Law book to follow (a.k.a. Customs Law Book) that's over a thousand pages listing all the federal statues, made specifically for Customs Officers, that gives us the authority to enforce federal law, as well as state law. Is there a TSA law book out there, please school me.
DHS OFFICER?
After looking up TSA I discovered I was wrong. TSA does have true Law enforcement personnel. It states:
The TSA Office of Law Enforcement directs all TSA law enforcement activities and related critical incident management functions. It includes the Federal Air Marshal Service and the TSA National Explosives Detection Canine Program and the Federal Flight Deck Officer Program.
So if you have any of the above positions I am sorry, for those positions are true law enforcement positions. However, if you are a TSA SECURITY Screener or working a SECURITY check point, you are nothing but airport SECURITY. No where on the TSA web site does it state TSA SECURITY Screeners enforcing any laws. There is nothing wrong with being a SECURITY Gaurd (a police officer without benifits), I have a few in my family and respect them because they don't try to be or act like something they're not. Just be happy you got a job with the government.
Mike Papa
19 USC 1589(a) /8 USC 1357 says it all! I worked the southern border for 3.5 years. I was sworn in as a Special Officer of the Louisiana State Police during Katrina spent 11 days sleeping in the floor of a building that the roof had caved in on. I unlike other CBPOs get in a GOV and have 168 miles of the Mississippi river to conduct ship inspections (ALONE). So stamp monkey or not we all deserve it.
Striker
How you can even say that TSA is Law Enforcement? TSA is not even security because most security guards have authority to detain. TSA has no authority to detain anyone!!! TSA performs voluntary consent searches on passengers. That is it. No gun, no badge,no arrest authority. Hell if there is a problem at the checkpoint with a passenger you guys have to call a cop. You guys go to two weeks of training in a classroom. At least CBP goes to FLETC. Stop embarrassing yourself you wannabe!! CBP may not be true LEO, but they are much closer to being a true LEO than TSA will ever be.
DHS OFFICER
STRIKER???
Who you gonna strike? You be a tough guy? TSA OFFICERS got the LOCKDOWN on ALL JFK checkpoints B-OTCH!!!! We ARE HOMELAND SECURITY.
Why you hatin? Jealous?
DHS OFFICER?
Like I said. If you are NOT with the Federal Air Marshal Service and the TSA National Explosives Detection Canine Program and the Federal Flight Deck Officer Program, all other TSA positions are NOT considered law enforcement. TSA Investigator's would be considered law enforcement also, if an 1811.
Striker
Look you, you and the rest of your cheese doodle eating, fatass, lazy, old ass, bitchass TSA Motherf**kers are a joke. It is hard to keep a straight face when going through TSA at the airport. All you ghetto bandanna wearing thugs. Go take some old lady's nail clippers bitch and leave real law enforcement to the pros.
webmaster
A reminder: Comments that are impolite, off-topic, violations of others' rights, or advertisements are likely to be removed. Please refrain from personal attacks and foul language, which do not help site visitors form opinions of this legislation.
Sean
It saddens me that this type of commentary is taking place. For those of you who are TSA we thank you. The reality is, we all have some enforcement action that needs to be done. I recommend that the senate do something fast because CBP is losing officers everyday and with Deportation opening the doors across the nation, it is only fair to say that the majority of legacy immigration will leave very soon. CBP needs to wake up and give the president some advice and pass this bill. 6c is necessary to right an extreme wrong made by our current administration. The harsh reality is, it may be too late and an important element(immigration experience) of CBP will be lost forever.
cbpo/jfk
DHS OFFICER
Look at your posts...
If you were in charge of the budget and read these posts you would like to find out who the clown that wrote them was, then fire them. See how you represent your bootleg agency, lol. Again write like you have an education! -- At least try to PRETEND!!!
Sea Rat
Since my last comment, we lost 3 more officers who took other jobs, jobs with 6c and lower pay. It is critical that something is done soon to retain CBP Officers. Morale is EXTREMELY low and there is no incentive for CBP Officers to stay for the long run. All the experienced and motivated officers are quickly leaving CBP, and CBP is left with the “bottom of the barrel” officers. Frankly, I am not too impressed with most of the new hires as well. Yes, I believe CBP is in “desperate mode” with the hiring process and will take anyone so long they qualify. Basically, if things don’t change CBP Officers will be like “the blind, leading the blind”. All the experience and heart will be gone from CBP, and I personally don’t want to be around a work force like that. In conclusion, if CBP Officers don’t get 6c (which I strongly believe we won’t), start looking for employment elsewhere (if you have not already). If you can get 6c or LEO status some where else, go for it.
TSA Federal OFFICER
TSA has some former CBP Officers. They are very DUMB and LAZY. I am a LEAD OFFICER and I give them the worst posts. It seems all they know how to do is stamp passports. At my check point in JFK CBP Officers wait in line like everyone else to pass the TSA checkpoint. TSA Officers are younger stronger and more dedicated.
To cbp/jfk; I think I know who you are and I KNOW you would NOT say ANY of those things within earshot of my Officers.
TSA Federal OFFICER?
TSA LEAD SECURITY OFFICER
Basic Qualification Requirements:
All applicants must demonstrate at least six months of experience performing the duties of a Transportation SECURITY Officer, SV-019-D, or GS-5/6 level, or equivalent or higher SECURITY experience gained in the Federal government or the private sector. Such experience would include:
Providing frontline SECURITY protection to air travelers, airports, and airplanes.
Wanding, performing pat down searches, operating an x-ray machine, screening baggage, and reviewing tickets.
Identifying dangerous objects on passengers and/or in baggage or cargo, and preventing these objects from being transported onto aircraft.
Using diverse electronic detection and imaging equipment
Where's the arrest experience, firearm or Use of Force Experience?
REAL Law enforcement stuff, LEAD OFFICER. You forgot to add SECURITY, you wanna be.
LEAD OFFICER?
"TSA has some former CBP Officers. They are very DUMB and LAZY."
If you had a clue, thats why they are working for TSA and not CBP. Think before you write Lead SECURITY Officer.
CB Puta
Kiss my coolo maricon.
You ain't sh*t. That's why CBPutas always try and get with all the TSA females.
Sea Rat
Nice. Great way to represent TSA.
Concerned Citizen
"Senate Dems dare Bush to veto homeland security spending bill"
Thank you Senate and Congress for fighting for the Homeland Security Bill. I strongly believe the American People see that you care for the people and the American way of life. If this bill gets vetoed, it will clearly show our president, who created the Department of Homeland Security, does not care for the safety of our country. What's it going to take to get the funding the country needs to properly be protected, the sacrifice of more innocent people to acts of terrorism before you react? What's 2 billion dollars more (of the proposed 35 billion) of spending that will protect & save thousands of American lives? To save money, for all the money that was and is being wasted (billions spent in less than a week) on a losing war? I am a combat veteran and I KNOW war is not cheap and the protection and security of our country shouldn’t be either!
CBPO
Bush is a TRAITOR. He cares more about illegal aliens than CBP Officers. He pardons "Scooter" Libby but not BPA's Ramos and Compean.
http://agentramos.blogspot.com/
Sea Rat
Senate passes $40.6 billion in homeland security spending, veto proof! Republicans and Democrats working together, beautiful (atleast we know they care for DHS and the American peoples safety)!Looking good! Come on Mr. President just sign it, the entire country will benefit.
SEE RAT!!??!!
Go eat some cheese
Mad props to my TSA dawgs!!!!!!!!
cbp/jfk
I want to say I am sorry for insulting TSA @JFK. I met with a LEAD OFFICER at the Terminal four checkpoint and he straightened me out-in more ways then one! :)
TSA DOES deserve 6c as much as CBP.
I stand corrected. I respect my TSA brothers and sisters in Homeland Security.
cbp/jfk?
If this is really you, please explain why TSA deserves 6c? I really want to know what they do to deserve it, give me an example. Do TSA officers perform investigative work, enforce federal or state laws, make siezures, make arrests, deport illegals, carry a firearm/utilize the Use of Force?
If TSA Officers (checkpoint) deserve it, explain why and I will back TSA 100%! Make me and the rest of the law enforcement community believers. However, I doubt this is you because you usually sign on as cbpo/jfk, not cbp/jfk! Yeah, as a CBPO I know all about inconsistencies! But, please proove me wrong.
Sea Rat
I have no problem with TSA, except when they use "potty mouth" remarks as come backs. If TSA officers working checkpoint deserve 6c, great. But I also don't know what they do to deserve 6c. As a CBP officer, I enforce state and federal laws at Airports, Seaports, and Landbrders. TSA is based out at the Airports and from what I know their duties are, TSA Security Screener/Officers do not even come close to deserving 6c. I appreciate the job TSA does and I will leave it at that.
DHS OFFICER
TSA FEDERAL OFFICERS to get SHIELDS and new uniforms;
http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/tso_uniform.shtm
Next is 6c. All you TSA haters can start crying now! CBPO/JFK how you like me now?
Sea Rat
Never hated TSA and I am glad things are looking up for TSA. I know TSA deserves alot more (got family in TSA). I understand TSA has the highest turnover in DHS. I do recognize you as law enforcement. However, 6c is something that will take time, as Customs/Immigration (now CBPO's) been waiting for years to get. In time, given the current threat we are under, I really would like to see all TSA officers shielded, armed, and going to training in FLETC with the rest of the federal law enforcement family. The more we got in DHS, the safer the American public will be. Let's work together and catch some bad guys, especially those dirty terrorists!
Downtown Fed
Listen, TSA has a job to do like anyone else, I actually did TSA myself for 2 years, now I've moved on, but dont you DARE try to put yourself in the same category as a LEO. You are not even in the same league and never will be. You think you deserve 6c??? You must be high.
Striker
Hey Buddy, It's gonna take alot more than getting blue uniforms to receive 6c. The security guards at walmart wear blue uniforms too, so does that mean they should get 6c??
Get off your power trip already, your're not a LEO, your just security, deal with it!!
cbpo/jfk
That was not me, but now I know this clown is a lead @ the I.A.T.
And regarding the uniform, have you been to TARGET??? Looks familiar doesn’t it. Only one thing Target security has had that uniform a long time w/ a badge... but most of all they at least have radios and cuffs, TOOL! I will never recognize TSA as LEO's so if another TSA clown tries to pretend they are me you all know its not. Maybe when your given more than a weeks training/ a firearm/ armor/ cuffs/ and most of all AUTHORITY to act I will "consider" it. Su#k it easy clown.
To my cbp family looks good hope it happens this time.
CBPO/?
Welcome back bro! I knew that was not you before, guess training and experience goes along way to figure out who's faking or not. Yes, I heard it looks like a sure thing this time, 6c is in our grasps, but I won't believe it till we get it. We've been fooled before.
DHS
Description
As a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) (Screener):
You will perform a variety of duties related to providing SECURITY and protection of air travelers, airports and aircraft. You will be responsible for identifying dangerous objects in baggage, cargo and/or on passengers; and preventing those objects from being transported onto aircraft. You are required to perform various tasks such as: wanding, pat down searches, operation of x-ray machines, lift and carry baggage (weighing up to 70 pounds), and screening and ticket review using electronic and imaging equipment. As a TSO , you may perform passenger screening, baggage screening or both. You are expected to perform these duties in a courteous and professional manner.
SOUNDS LIKE SECURITY, LOOKS LIKE SECURITY, MUST BE SECURITY! 6c, NEVER!
dhs SECURITY officer
Are you in a fairy tale? Wanding? If your not Harry Potter, you must be a security guard because I never heard of any cop, state, or federal law enforcement officer (including CBP) using or operating a "wand" other than for confinement purposes. The airport is not a prison or cell block, that kinda narrows it down. Stop trying to be something your not, and just admit what you really are, Security.
opinion
I wanted to know what people in CBP thought of their jobs and I found this site. I'm not a CBP Officer (or in DHS) but it does seem that CPB Officers do LEO duties and should have 6c, but no more double time, ouch! However, I was saddened as I kept reading all the comments. Why all the hatred or anger? If BP or other LEOs see these comments, I think they'll agree that most of the comments on this site are very unprofessional.
opinion?
I truly agree, but can you proove it's a CBP Officer? It's probly another TSA "potty mouth" trying to make CBP look bad. If you really read the comments you will see that impersonations were utilized, people trying to pretend to be someone they're not. I am very keen of liers, as I deal with them from a day to day basis. Are you? I sense lies in your comment. Proove me wrong.
CBPO vs. TSA
Where do you get off trying to say that TSA has more authority than CBP?? OK, son let me set you straight here. The most you can do at your checkpoint is ASK someone to take off their shoes. The passenger has the right to refuse. They may not be able to board their flight as a result, but that is it!! If the PAX turns around and walks away what can you do to stop them?? Nothing. Now a CBP Officer on the other hand DOES have the right to Detain/Arrest a person. TSA does not. That is the difference. Also CBPO's attend FLETC, must pass PT standards, qualify with firearms quarterly, and enforce Federal statutes. What does a TSA Officer do that even comes close to this? My friend, if you thing that TSA warrents 6c Federal LE Status, you are pretty pathetic.
opinion
Lies in my comment? Why are you accusing TSA? I don't work for CBP, but I know someone that is in training for CBPO and I was curious if they were going to get the same retirement other LEOs get. I think that CBPOs deserve 6c just like BP gets. Is BP much more difficult? I hear it's actually more fun + they get 6c.
opinion?
BP could be fun. Depends on what you like. In BP you will see alot of action but work in some harsh environments (dessert heat and snow). Be aware that BP is the most dangerous job in DHS. We lose alot of BP agents in the course of their duties. I really respect BP because they know the risk and are still very dedicated in performing their duties, you got to be. They certainly deserve 6c and a whole lot more.
Ed
I've read that the only reason CBPO haven't gotten 6c is because of the financial impact. If they do law enforcement duties, they need to get the same benefits that other officers/agents (that do law enforcement duties) get.
shawn
Kill this bill we have enough rouge bureaucracies already.
Shawn?
To late, looks like this ones gonna pass this time. Make room for one more "rouge Bureaucracy" as you call it. And Ed, you are partially correct. It will cost 50 million to get started but after a course of a few years the government will make more money off 6c (no double time, no $35,000 per officer in overtime a year, more retirment contributions). Actually, CBPO's will be taking a payloss with 6c, work more hours, but atleast will be eligible to retire in 20 years, not 30. Is it worth it? You be the judge.
cbpo/jfk
Not everyone gets 30 year retirement either. From what I understand I need to have 30 & 57 years of age I'm 24 now and been on 2 years. 6(c) would be awesome for me, and I won’t be so anxious to jump ship to IEA or anything else. 6(c) would make many CBPO's stay and save $$$$$ in training costs. After 2 years on the job people leave for coverage elsewhere, I have heard it costs DHS/CBP in the ball park of $100,000.00 to train 1 employee from start to finish. That’s a lot of money for someone to take the training and leave to do it again for another agency!!!
CBPO/? Yea, yea, yea I'm back. Had to release the poison. Went on vacation. Right through TSA no problems they QUIVERED when I told them I was CBP. CLOWNS!!
Bill
This bill isn't gonna pass, keep dreaming losers!! Now go stamp some passports!!
Bill?
Thanks you for your comment TSA Screener.
CBPO/JFK?
Quivered??? I make your Moms thighs quiver.
Ain't scared of no CBP***s punk!!!
webmaster
A reminder: Comments that are impolite, off-topic, violations of others' rights, or advertisements are likely to be removed. Please refrain from personal attacks and foul language, which do not help site visitors form opinions of this legislation.
John Doe
After reading this site, I realize how unprofessional DHS Employees are, especially TSA. I will be a new hire to DHS, and I can clearly see I made the right choice. I am so glad I turned down the offer for a TSA position. Judging from the comments from this site and personal experience, TSA is the worst branch in DHS. CBPO's treated me better when traveling internationally and are atleast responsible enough to be armed.
Ed
BPAs would also benefit from HR1684. Please stop the ridiculous bickering.
Ed
You are correct, in fact all DHS will benifit, especially TSA. This bill will pay for more BPAs and fences around the border, better TSA benefits and screening equipment, LEO pay for CBPOs and a whole lot more.
Ed
The president has threatened to veto the Bill due to National Security Risks (whatever that means). Can anybody shed any light on what that could mean? Please keep it professional.
Sea Rat
President Bush Signed the Homeland Security Bill on August 3, 2007, just a few hours ago. Thank you Mr. President, on major step accomplished for defending the home front. As a DHS employee, I salute you. Read about on the Washington Post.
Bill?
Who's the loser now. I rest my case.
Sea Rat?
There is no language in the bill that the President signed which grants Law Enforcement status for CBP Officers.
Ed
That's is GREAT news Sea Rat. Thanks!!
Ed
The President signed H.R. 1. Were there any other DHS Bills signed?
Ed
The Senate hasn't even voted on H.R. 1684 yet.
ED?
You are correct, 1684 hasn't been voted on yet, HOWEVER check out HR 2638. It already has been voted by senate, 89-1. It is pending the presidents signature, and even if he vetos it the senate threatened to over ride the veto, had enough votes. The bill HR 1, which the president signed, is a major step accomplished, now they need the funds to back the new laws, HR 2638 will have to follow.
2638
could be a pocket veto. congress wants to adjourn for their break. the President has til the 11th.
Ed
Senate hasn't voted on 2638.Maybe they'll vote in Sep (after their break)?
POPI
Retired NYPD Detective, 13 years INS/CBP. I can honestly say CBP is a tougher job and 6c is well deserved. I love my job and I love working at JFK!
Sean
Here is the sad and true fact! H.R. 1684 is an opening bill. H.R. 2638 is an appropriations bill. H.R. 2638 passed in the house, S.1644 which is a senate bill also passed in the senate but it had no language regarding LEO coverage for CBPO's. In essence, it is dead unless the House demands the senate put it back in the bill. President Bush is going to get his way and deny us what is truly ours. If anyone knows a state rep that is on the homeland security committee then I suggest you talk to he/she. The senate will not even entertain our LEO coverage because of the initial cost. They have no idea what they have done. It is almost as if they want us to fail because they know that CBPO's will look elsewhere.
Sea Rat
Like I said, major steps accomplished futherest 6c went in years, still got a small shot for 6c. Bottom line, finally doing more to defend the home front. Yes, we will lose more & more officers, most of who were already looking for jobs when they got this one. However, it doesn't matter the quantity but the QUALITY of CBPO's!
Without 6c, CBP will continue to lose both, especially the QUALITY. It takes 1 terrorist attack to affect millions, but it takes one well trained CBPO to detect and stop it all from happening.
Ed
THIS IS THE MOST RECENT VERSION OF HR2638PP. This is the the bill that passed the Senate.
Ordered to be printed with the amendment of the Senate
[Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic]
[Struck out->] SEC. 533. The Commissioner of United States Customs and Border Protection shall, not later than July 1, 2008, establish for the United States Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO) position, a new classification (`CBPO/LEO'), which shall be identical to the current position description for a CBPO, and include, but not be limited to, eligibility for treatment accorded to law enforcement officers under subchapter III of chapter 83, and chapter 84 of title 5, United States Code.
Guess Congress doesn't want CBPO to do LE??
ED?
After talking to some union reps, this means anyone who is hired on or after this date will be LEO and must reach the age requirment. Those already in CBPO positions on or after this date that meet the age requirments will qualify for LEO. In short, if you are a CBPO 37 or older on July 8, 2008 you will not qualify for LEO.
FMRCBPO
CBPO in the airport is the worst job that is slightly better than that of a screener. We are stamp monkeys and armed shopping mall security guards (walmart security with guns) that collect declarations and check to see that no one is bringing out of secured area anything illegal. IF ever offered that job decline it. P.S. As for the enforcement of immigration law some agents from Customs side can't even spell that. 6c or no 6c the job is garbage.
Desert Rat
I started at Long Beach Seaport 11 years ago, not for me. More of an admin job. I've been to Dulles Airport training K-9 Officers, I wouldn't want to work at an airport. Now the southern border is very different. All of the events from irate traveler would not be tolerated. He or she would be face down, ass up in handcuffs. Bottom line, there is a job for everyone in CBP. Don't complain, go for what you want. Southern border is where its at, but its hot. Airport officers have a much better variety of recreational activities available and better climate. So its a trade off, like everything else in life.
IRATE TRAVELER
.."face down ass up...." ???
How professional Mr. Rat. I doubt I will ever have the unique pleasure of seeing you on the Mexican border as I can afford to fly anywhere in the world I choose. You are just another wanna be cop with no balls. You and your fellow 'officers' do NOT deserve this status you so desperatly desire. One thing I will agree with on is that CBP at the airports ARE pathetic. JFK is filled with the fattest,laziest,old grey haired "officers" I have ever seen. I have literally observed an elderly "officer" walking with a cane. Now, stamp my passport and keep your mouth SHUT like a good little stamp monkey!!! HA!! HA!! HA!! Being a loser civil servant must really BLOW!!!
FMRCBPO
There may be a place for everyone in CBP but today you have two wait two years to transfer from an airport to the southern border, and enforcing laws of 21 other agencies