BTA to Speaker McCarthy: Government shutdown risks disruptions to trade, harm to Border Patrol and CBP recruitment, retention, and morale

The BTA on September 25, 2023 sent this letter to Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy with a warning of how a government shutdown will negatively affect the border.

From the letter:

A government shutdown and the resulting furloughs, reduced staffing levels, and interruptions to services the cross-border trade community depends on risks severe disruptions to the processing of goods – including perishable fresh fruits and vegetables – and substantial economic losses for businesses on both sides of the border. The economic risk is significant, with the daily trade value flowing across our land borders reaching approximately $3 billion, and Mexico currently holding the position as the U.S.’ top trading partner overall and its leading import partner. 

We are also concerned about the effects of a shutdown on Customs and Border Protection, whose Border Patrol agents and Customs and Border Protection officers would be required to work without pay. For an agency already under severe strain, a shutdown would significantly harm agency morale, recruitment, and retention. Averting a lapse in pay for these professionals should be a priority. 

Full letter here.