Letter to the Editor: CBP Cancellation of Reduced Work Schedules
Dear Editor:
I am writing as a representative of the 311 frontline employees who work for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at port in Eagle Pass, Texas, all of whom are worried about their personal health and safety and that of their coworkers and families.
As essential employees we are always prepared to do our jobs and process legitimate trade and travel while stopping illegal narcotics, counterfeit goods and other dangers to our country. We are proud of our role. The decrease in the volume of traffic because of the pandemic and border restrictions provided an opportunity to reduce the numbers of employees interacting with each other and with travelers and we worked locally to create a plan that protected us and got the job done.
Without warning or rationale, CBP canceled those adjusted schedules at ports along the borders, putting more employees at greater risk, which threatens all of us.
In my role as president of Chapter 178 of the National Treasury Employees Union, I am urging CBP to restore the adjusted work schedules and give our frontline employees a few less hours per week in harm’s way. We are grateful that such administrative leave is an option, and CBP employees, even on leave, remain on call to report to the port as needed.
During this global pandemic, we should be allowed this temporary adjustment that keeps all of us safer without jeopardizing port operations.
Miguel Flores
President, NTEU Chapter 178
160 Garrison St., Eagle Pass, Texas 78852
830-752-3163
