Congresswoman Escobar Introduces Legislation to Create Transparency for CBP’s Trusted Traveler Program

Last night, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) introduced the Trusted Traveler Program Transparency Act, legislation that creates much-needed transparency and standardized processes for U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Trusted Traveler Program.

"The Trusted Traveler Program is a vital benefit that helps move people and traffic across our ports safely and efficiently," said Congresswoman Escobar. "But despite the convenience of the program, a challenge for our community is that it has operated without transparency, leaving countless people, including many El Pasoans, frustrated and in the dark when their enrollment is revoked or their appeal denied without explanation. My legislation helps users by guaranteeing clear communication, written explanations, and a standardized review process for the thousands of El Pasoans who use programs like Sentri, Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and more."

"The El Paso Chamber supports efforts to improve transparency within Trusted Traveler Programs, which are essential to daily mobility and economic activity in border communities," said Ricardo Mora, President and CEO of the El Paso Chamber. "Having helped establish the Dedicated Commuter SENTRI Lane at the Stanton Street Bridge in 1999, we understand firsthand how these programs support workers, businesses, and cross-border travel. Clear communication and predictable processes strengthen both commuter confidence and the long-term efficiency of our ports of entry."

"The El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce supports efforts that bring greater transparency, consistency, and accountability to programs that directly impact our binational business community," said Gladys Gonzalez, President and CEO of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. "Trusted Traveler Programs such as SENTRI and Global Entry are essential to the daily movement of executives, employees, and supply chains in our region. When businesses or individuals experience unexpected suspensions or delays without clear guidance, it can create real disruptions. This legislation is about transparency and due process, ensuring that individuals and businesses have clear information, a defined appeals process, and timely updates. In a border region like ours, where cross-border commerce drives economic growth, clarity and efficiency matter. We appreciate Congresswoman Escobar's focus on strengthening systems that support our business community and regional mobility."

The bill would require U.S. Customs and Protection (CBP) to provide clear, written explanations to program enrollees and applicants whose memberships have been revoked, suspended, terminated, or denied. It would also establish standardized appeal and review procedures for each case, should one not exist.

Specifically, the Trusted Traveler Program Transparency Act would require:

• The Secretary of Homeland Security to establish an appeals process for individuals whose enrollment in a Trusted Traveler program is denied, suspended, or terminated, should a process not already exist.
• The Secretary of Homeland Security to provide in writing to an individual information regarding the denial, suspension, or termination of their TTP enrollment.
  • This includes the reason for the denial, suspension, or termination; options available for an appeal and relevant information including timelines; and options to reapply and relevant information.
• The Secretary of Homeland Security to create a webpage on the DHS website that includes information regarding the appeals process as well as a public telephone number for individuals to call for the status of their pending appeals.
• The Secretary of Homeland Security to provide updates to individuals with pending appeals every four weeks.