U.S. Customs and Border Protection is launching a pilot program at four Texas border crossings and one Florida port of entry to boost staffing and cut crossing times.
Under the program, CBP will accept funds from local governments or private entities to improve the convenience of travelers.
Local officials and CBP officers attended a kickoff ceremony Thursday at the Paso Del Norte Bridge in El Paso. The improved staffing will start Sunday in the West Texas city, and funding for additional agents will come from increased border-bridge toll fees.
The South Texas Assets Consortium, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Houston Airport System and the Miami-Dade County government have joined in the agreement with CBP.
More CBP agents at inspection booths during peak times are meant to expedite crossings.
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