Tester Seeks Improvements for Border Patrol Agents’ Radio Equipment

Senator: ‘Lack of reliable, interoperable, and secure communication devices represents a direct threat to agent safety and border security’

(U.S. Senate) – U.S. Senator Jon Tester demanded answers on what U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is doing to make sure Border Patrol agents have functional communications devices.

Tester, a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee, sent a letter to CBP Acting Commissioner Kevin McAleenan following reports of inoperable radios and other communications devices along America’s Southern and Northern border.

“In order to keep our borders secure, Border Patrol agents must have the most up-to-date technology,” Tester said. “Along the Northern and Southern border, we are only as strong as our weakest link, and that is why it is critical that we shore up gaps in communication and ensure that Customs and Border Protection has the tools necessary to keep Montanans and Americans safe.”

Tester’s letter called the lack of reliable communication direct threat to agent safety and border security. The Senators called on CBP to purchase equipment that will meet the safety needs of agents and allow for a more secure border.

Read the Tester’s letter to McAleenan HERE.