# Understanding the CBP Workload Staffing Model Act

This bill is about making sure the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency (CBP) has the right number of workers in the right places to do their jobs effectively. Right now, the agency doesn't have a clear, standardized way to figure out how many people they actually need at different border locations and in different roles. This bill requires CBP to create a formal system to calculate staffing needs based on actual workload rather than just guessing or using outdated methods.

The bill focuses on two main CBP operations: the U.S. Border Patrol (the officers who patrol the border) and Air and Marine Operations (the people who monitor the border by air and water). CBP has one year to develop a "workload staffing model"—basically a formula that considers things like how many people cross the border in different areas, what technology and infrastructure exists at each location, and what support staff are needed behind the scenes. The idea is that some border areas are busier than others, some have better equipment, and some need more support workers, so staffing should reflect these differences.

The bill also requires CBP to create a better system for tracking when workers actually work and what they actually do. This means implementing software or procedures to record hours and activities accurately, then training all employees on how to use it. This data would then feed back into the staffing model to make sure it's based on real information rather than assumptions.

Finally, the bill requires the Department of Homeland Security to report back to Congress annually about how this new system is working, and it asks the Inspector General (an independent watchdog) to review whether the staffing model actually addresses problems that were identified in previous audits. For everyday people, this means border operations should theoretically become more efficient and better resourced, though the actual impact would depend on whether Congress then provides the funding to hire additional staff if the model shows it's needed.

CBP Workload Staffing Model Act

Higgins, Clay

CBP Workload Staffing Model Act This bill requires the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to develop and implement a workload staffing model for each of the U.S. Border Patrol and Air and Marine Operations. Such model shall include (1) consideration for essential frontline operator activities and functions, (2) variations in operating environments, and (3) present and planned infrastructure and technology. The CBP must also develop standard operating procedures for a workforce tracking system, train the workforce on the use of such system, and implement internal controls to ensure timely and accurate scheduling and reporting. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must review the model and provide feedback regarding the degree to which it is responsive to certain DHS recommendations.