By Scout Nelson
Senator John Hoeven announced that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will expand operating hours at four North Dakota border ports of entry (POEs) beginning January 6, 2025. The extended hours, developed in coordination with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), will be in place at Fortuna and Noonan (9 a.m. – 7 p.m.), Neche (8 a.m. – 6 p.m.), and Walhalla (8 a.m. – 8 p.m.).
Hoeven has been advocating for this change, emphasizing its importance for the quality of life in border communities and the economic vitality of northern border states. Extended POE hours will improve access for residents, support the tourism industry, and facilitate trade between the U.S. and Canada.
In his efforts, Hoeven has been actively working within the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure additional resources, including infrastructure, staffing, and technology, to aid Border Patrol agents in North Dakota.
He has also met regularly with CBP and Border Patrol leadership to advocate for enhanced resources along the northern border and a return to pre-pandemic operating hours for POEs, as the area has seen a significant increase in cross-border activity.
In addition, Hoeven is co-sponsoring legislation, led by Senator Jim Risch and Congressman Kelly Armstrong, requiring CBP’s northern POE hours to meet or exceed their pre-pandemic schedules. Last year, Hoeven joined bipartisan efforts urging CBP to restore normal hours or at least align them with adjacent CBSA POEs.
“This is good news for our border communities, ag producers, tourism industry and travelers, but more needs to be done. The continued restricted hours at ports of entry across the northern border are a real challenge for our economy and the many industries that rely on trade with our close friend and ally, Canada,” said Hoeven. "We will continue working to ensure the law is enforced, and bring North Dakota’s ports of entry back to their normal operating hours.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ziviani
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy