WEBVTT 00:00:28.960 --> 00:00:30.479 Ann Beauchesne: Okay, well good morning, everybody. 00:00:30.479 --> 00:00:32.383 Welcome. I'm Ann Beauchesne. 00:00:32.383 --> 00:00:34.799 I'm the Senior Vice-President for National Security 00:00:34.799 --> 00:00:37.526 and Emergency Preparedness here at the U.S. Chamber. 00:00:37.526 --> 00:00:40.062 We're so glad that you could join us here today, 00:00:40.062 --> 00:00:43.637 and the U.S. Chamber is very pleased to welcome back our friend and partner 00:00:43.637 --> 00:00:47.565 U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Gil Kerlikowske 00:00:47.565 --> 00:00:52.092 for his first State of the Agency address focused on trade. 00:00:52.092 --> 00:00:54.684 As the Commissioner begins his second year at CBP 00:00:54.684 --> 00:00:58.339 we thought that this was a perfect time to address the trade community 00:00:58.339 --> 00:01:00.667 and give them an overview of what's coming up. 00:01:00.667 --> 00:01:03.546 The Chamber supports the dual mission of CBP, protecting 00:01:03.546 --> 00:01:07.442 national security objectives while promoting economic prosperity. 00:01:07.442 --> 00:01:10.857 We see ourselves as a partner in their mission. 00:01:10.857 --> 00:01:14.144 Businesses are linked together through a global web of interconnected, 00:01:14.144 --> 00:01:16.832 predictable and efficient supply chains. 00:01:16.832 --> 00:01:21.646 U.S. businesses rely on those supply chains to access international consumers 00:01:21.646 --> 00:01:24.662 as well as compete in the global marketplace. 00:01:24.662 --> 00:01:28.485 Improvements that address cross border frictions smooth the flow of trade 00:01:28.485 --> 00:01:32.149 and enhance the competitiveness of all of our companies. 00:01:32.149 --> 00:01:34.741 We at the Chamber will continue to advance priorities 00:01:34.741 --> 00:01:37.515 that improve the performance of global supply chains. 00:01:37.515 --> 00:01:41.076 This advocacy will include policy and regulatory reform, 00:01:41.076 --> 00:01:43.491 pursuing effective legislation on the hill, 00:01:43.491 --> 00:01:45.722 promoting commercially meaningful commitments 00:01:45.722 --> 00:01:49.818 from our trade partners to advance global customs modernization. 00:01:49.818 --> 00:01:54.929 As the hill moves forward with trade permission authority we must not forget 00:01:54.929 --> 00:01:58.801 about the bipartisan Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act 00:01:58.801 --> 00:02:00.832 or customs modernization. 00:02:00.832 --> 00:02:04.912 As you know this legislation takes aggressive action 00:02:04.912 --> 00:02:06.672 to address checkpoints at our borders, 00:02:06.672 --> 00:02:08.638 lower the transaction costs of trade 00:02:08.638 --> 00:02:11.726 and provide needed resources for trade facilitation, 00:02:11.726 --> 00:02:16.302 customs modernization and the enforcement of our intellectual property rights. 00:02:16.302 --> 00:02:19.949 As the executive order on trade facilitation enters its second year, 00:02:19.949 --> 00:02:23.715 the Chamber will continue to engage DHS in the interagency 00:02:23.715 --> 00:02:28.028 to ensure the delivery of a commercially meaningful single window 00:02:28.028 --> 00:02:31.075 that meets the White House's 2016 deadline. 00:02:31.075 --> 00:02:34.354 And finally as the trade facilitation agreement advances, 00:02:34.354 --> 00:02:37.554 the Chamber is committed to a public/private partnership that 00:02:37.554 --> 00:02:41.361 ensures accountability for commercially meaningful implementation. 00:02:41.361 --> 00:02:45.882 We look forward to working with CBP to modernize customs procedures and streamline 00:02:45.882 --> 00:02:50.719 the passage of goods by cutting red tape and bureaucracy at our global borders. 00:02:50.719 --> 00:02:53.152 With that said we know we have a great partnership with 00:02:53.152 --> 00:02:56.014 Commissioner Kerlikowske and his team. 00:02:56.014 --> 00:02:59.854 We look forward to working together to advance our shared priorities 00:02:59.854 --> 00:03:04.838 on modernizing the border processes for 21st century trade. 00:03:04.838 --> 00:03:09.317 It is now truly my pleasure to introduce Commissioner Kerlikowske. 00:03:09.317 --> 00:03:14.692 Gil Kerlikowske was nominated by President Obama and sworn in in March 7, 2014, 00:03:14.692 --> 00:03:19.188 as Commissioner, taking the helm of the 60,000 employee agency 00:03:19.188 --> 00:03:22.146 with a budget of 12.4 billion dollars. 00:03:22.146 --> 00:03:25.010 As Commissioner he leads the largest federal law enforcement agency 00:03:25.010 --> 00:03:29.953 and second largest revenue collecting source in the federal government. 00:03:29.953 --> 00:03:33.112 The Commissioner brings nearly four decades of law enforcement 00:03:33.112 --> 00:03:36.336 and drug policy experience to the office of the Commissioner. 00:03:36.336 --> 00:03:39.199 Previously he served in such distinguished positions 00:03:39.199 --> 00:03:42.543 as Director of the White House Office of National Drug Policy, 00:03:42.543 --> 00:03:44.487 Chief of Police in Seattle, Washington, 00:03:44.487 --> 00:03:46.327 Police Commissioner in Buffalo, New York, 00:03:46.327 --> 00:03:48.509 and the majority of his law enforcement career 00:03:48.509 --> 00:03:51.476 was spent with the St. Petersburg Police Department. 00:03:51.476 --> 00:03:55.310 He has received numerous awards and recognition for his leadership, 00:03:55.310 --> 00:03:58.173 innovation and community service. 00:03:58.173 --> 00:04:01.701 Gil, thank you for your lifetime of service to our great country. 00:04:01.701 --> 00:04:16.003 Please give a warm welcome to Commissioner Kerlikowske. 00:04:16.003 --> 00:04:17.740 Gil Kerlikowske: Well, good morning, everybody. 00:04:17.740 --> 00:04:19.482 Thank you so much for being here, and Ann, 00:04:19.482 --> 00:04:23.233 thank you very much for the very warm welcome. 00:04:23.233 --> 00:04:25.249 It's always a pleasure to come to the Chamber. 00:04:25.249 --> 00:04:28.337 It's always a great honor. 00:04:28.337 --> 00:04:33.192 The Chamber and all of its staff have been great partners with CBP 00:04:33.192 --> 00:04:35.391 and actually on the drug-free workplace 00:04:35.391 --> 00:04:40.303 when I served as the president's drug policy advisor so thank you very much. 00:04:40.303 --> 00:04:43.669 And I really appreciate the opportunity to be with all of you today. 00:04:43.669 --> 00:04:45.918 Many of you over the last year 00:04:45.918 --> 00:04:49.830 since I've had this job and actually during my confirmation process, 00:04:49.830 --> 00:04:51.885 I had the opportunity to get to know you, 00:04:51.885 --> 00:04:56.596 get to understand a lot of these issues and talk about them quite a bit. 00:04:56.596 --> 00:05:00.452 And I'd also like to thank the people that are attending via the webinar. 00:05:00.452 --> 00:05:03.930 So I'm sure there are people in Florida that have nice tans 00:05:03.930 --> 00:05:08.794 that are busy watching this, watching this also. 00:05:08.794 --> 00:05:12.802 The Chamber is absolutely vital to our nation's economic health, 00:05:12.802 --> 00:05:16.713 and as champions of American business you help; 00:05:16.713 --> 00:05:22.239 the Chamber helps our industries compete and lead on the global playing field. 00:05:22.239 --> 00:05:24.303 And I believe that another player in this 00:05:24.303 --> 00:05:27.094 is the United States Customs and Border Protection. 00:05:27.094 --> 00:05:29.829 We play a critical role in the effort. 00:05:29.829 --> 00:05:33.198 And the success of our mission, ensuring border security 00:05:33.198 --> 00:05:36.077 while facilitating lawful trade and travel, 00:05:36.077 --> 00:05:40.476 is integral to America's global competitiveness. 00:05:40.476 --> 00:05:44.844 On a typical day, and many of you already know these statistics 00:05:44.844 --> 00:05:48.458 but I wouldn't be a good fed if I didn't repeat some of them to you. 00:05:48.458 --> 00:05:52.322 On a typical day CBP processes more than a million people, 00:05:52.322 --> 00:05:56.826 screens more than 70,000 truck, rail and sea cargo containers 00:05:56.826 --> 00:06:00.105 at our 328 ports of entry, 00:06:00.105 --> 00:06:07.200 processing 4.4 billion dollars in exports, 6.8 billion dollars in imports. 00:06:07.200 --> 00:06:09.903 Trade and travel facilitation are balanced with 00:06:09.903 --> 00:06:13.583 a strong commitment to a seamless border security, 00:06:13.583 --> 00:06:18.110 and it makes our mission difficult but it also means that we have to have 00:06:18.110 --> 00:06:21.557 good collaboration, good communication and good partners. 00:06:21.557 --> 00:06:26.061 And that certainly includes every one of you that are here today. 00:06:26.061 --> 00:06:29.716 Well, last May when I had a chance to speak here at the Chamber 00:06:29.716 --> 00:06:32.675 I barely had two months in office 00:06:32.675 --> 00:06:37.148 and so some people were wondering, How does someone with a law enforcement, 00:06:37.148 --> 00:06:40.266 strong law enforcement background for many, many years; 00:06:40.266 --> 00:06:43.810 how are you going to adapt to this trade and this travel issue? 00:06:43.810 --> 00:06:46.690 How are you gonna make sure that you're paying attention to the 00:06:46.690 --> 00:06:50.554 economic security along with the border security? 00:06:50.554 --> 00:06:55.319 And how are you gonna navigate the incredible complexities of trade? 00:06:55.319 --> 00:06:59.711 After all, issues like supply chain security and cargo pre-inspection, 00:06:59.711 --> 00:07:03.927 mutual recognition arrangements, they all have their own special language. 00:07:03.927 --> 00:07:06.982 And in CBP I think we have the most acronyms. 00:07:06.982 --> 00:07:12.118 I think we're competing with the Department of Defense for the most acronyms. 00:07:12.118 --> 00:07:16.788 It's a different world and some might say that it can be for me particularly 00:07:16.788 --> 00:07:20.947 it was a bit more opaque than the law enforcement lingo of narcotics 00:07:20.947 --> 00:07:27.274 and smuggling and some of the crime issues that CBP deals with. 00:07:27.274 --> 00:07:31.098 But in my first year as Commissioner I've seen firsthand, 00:07:31.098 --> 00:07:35.152 and I've traveled all over the United States and frankly all over the world. 00:07:35.152 --> 00:07:38.760 I've gotten to see firsthand how integral our mission 00:07:38.760 --> 00:07:43.032 is to the nation's economic health and vitality and the safety 00:07:43.032 --> 00:07:45.847 and security of that global supply chain. 00:07:45.847 --> 00:07:50.718 In 2014 we cleared 2.5 trillion dollars in imports, 00:07:50.718 --> 00:07:54.014 1.6 trillion dollars in exports. 00:07:54.014 --> 00:08:01.221 We processed 26 million cargo containers, and that was an increase of 4% over 2013. 00:08:01.221 --> 00:08:04.707 And as everyone in this room and everyone watching clearly knows, 00:08:04.707 --> 00:08:08.996 those increases not only in trade but those increases in travel 00:08:08.996 --> 00:08:13.163 are something that we're certainly seeing in this fiscal year also. 00:08:13.163 --> 00:08:15.906 Well, seeing that firsthand and that volume at the ports 00:08:15.906 --> 00:08:20.049 provided a greater understanding of the complexity of the trade process 00:08:20.049 --> 00:08:24.040 and how they can present some real significant challenges for you, 00:08:24.040 --> 00:08:26.664 for those of you that are in global business. 00:08:26.664 --> 00:08:29.728 We enforce laws for 50 federal agencies. 00:08:29.728 --> 00:08:33.719 We have equities in, they all have equities in the trade process, 00:08:33.719 --> 00:08:36.302 hundreds of different types of forms, 00:08:36.302 --> 00:08:41.261 many more acronyms that are required to import and export goods. 00:08:41.261 --> 00:08:45.662 The system is and can be time consuming and it can be costly. 00:08:45.662 --> 00:08:50.093 And that's not only for government but for all of you as well. 00:08:50.093 --> 00:08:56.124 That's why CBP has really focused on streamlining and modernizing our process. 00:08:56.124 --> 00:08:59.068 We're really indebted to people that have worked 00:08:59.068 --> 00:09:05.098 and been longtime colleagues such as Algena at CBP 00:09:05.098 --> 00:09:08.313 and for the work that they did, and then to see them transform 00:09:08.313 --> 00:09:11.074 or to go over to work in the private sector 00:09:11.074 --> 00:09:14.768 is only of great benefit to both parties. 00:09:14.768 --> 00:09:18.471 CBP has to meet this international trade that is predicted, 00:09:18.471 --> 00:09:21.679 this growth in trade that's predicted in the next few years. 00:09:21.679 --> 00:09:24.238 I want to share with you some of the progress we've made 00:09:24.238 --> 00:09:27.206 and I want to talk with you about some of the things 00:09:27.206 --> 00:09:29.813 that we've charted for the future. 00:09:29.813 --> 00:09:33.157 So first of all was filling a number of key positions. 00:09:33.157 --> 00:09:40.236 Over the course of since Secretary Johnson has been in office not quite two years 00:09:40.236 --> 00:09:43.131 it was very clear to him that there were far too many acting positions 00:09:43.131 --> 00:09:45.763 in the Department of Homeland Security. 00:09:45.763 --> 00:09:49.123 And he made a real effort and has been incredibly successful 00:09:49.123 --> 00:09:52.386 at getting people confirmed through the United States Senate. 00:09:52.386 --> 00:09:55.793 But that's also been true for CBP. 00:09:55.793 --> 00:10:01.089 Prior to my confirmation we had a number of acting positions including 00:10:01.089 --> 00:10:05.751 acting positions within as Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection. 00:10:05.751 --> 00:10:08.823 Those people did an outstanding job. 00:10:08.823 --> 00:10:10.648 I really stand on their shoulders 00:10:10.648 --> 00:10:15.941 whether it's an Alan Bersin or a Tom Winkowski or a David Aguilar or others. 00:10:15.941 --> 00:10:17.758 They did an incredible job. 00:10:17.758 --> 00:10:21.981 But as all of us know in this room and in the politics of inside the Beltway, 00:10:21.981 --> 00:10:24.701 it's helpful to have the [inaudible 10:23] 00:10:24.701 --> 00:10:29.067 or the good housekeeping seal of the United States Senate. 00:10:29.067 --> 00:10:33.443 So being the first confirmed Commissioner in the Obama administration 00:10:33.443 --> 00:10:34.659 I think is helpful, 00:10:34.659 --> 00:10:37.011 but it also gave me the opportunity 00:10:37.011 --> 00:10:41.411 to remove a number of acting titles away from people. 00:10:41.411 --> 00:10:46.736 So many of you had a chance to participate and congratulate Kevin McAleenan 00:10:46.736 --> 00:10:51.295 as no longer the acting Deputy Commissioner but the Deputy Commissioner. 00:10:51.295 --> 00:10:53.775 I was incredibly proud to appoint Brenda Smith 00:10:53.775 --> 00:10:56.926 as the Assistant Commissioner for International Trade 00:10:56.926 --> 00:10:59.374 and Sandra Bell as the Deputy 00:10:59.374 --> 00:11:02.519 and Todd Owen coming from the Port of Los Angeles 00:11:02.519 --> 00:11:05.854 as the Assistant Commissioner for Field Operations 00:11:05.854 --> 00:11:09.108 and a strong partner with John Wagner as the Deputy, 00:11:09.108 --> 00:11:13.452 and then Rich Denucci with many, many, many years of experience in this field 00:11:13.452 --> 00:11:17.227 as the Executive Director of Cargo and Conveyance Security. 00:11:17.227 --> 00:11:19.483 All of these individuals are true experts 00:11:19.483 --> 00:11:21.633 and they're innovators in the trade mission, 00:11:21.633 --> 00:11:25.986 and they are a tremendous asset not only to CBP and DHS. 00:11:25.986 --> 00:11:30.713 They're a tremendous asset to the nation's economy and all of you; 00:11:30.713 --> 00:11:34.480 Maria Louisa Boyce who heads our Office of Trade Relations 00:11:34.480 --> 00:11:36.952 and is also our trade ombudsman, 00:11:36.952 --> 00:11:41.510 and the additional staff that I put in place in my office right down the hall 00:11:41.510 --> 00:11:46.431 to directly connect with me when it comes to issues that are of concern to you. 00:11:46.431 --> 00:11:51.460 And they work with me on a daily basis to make sure that I understand and recognize 00:11:51.460 --> 00:11:56.308 and live up to the promises that I've made regarding these priorities. 00:11:56.308 --> 00:11:59.101 I'm pleased to announce here today though that as 00:11:59.101 --> 00:12:04.164 we've made these promotions we also of course create vacancies with that. 00:12:04.164 --> 00:12:08.714 And there is no single area that is more important than making sure that 00:12:08.714 --> 00:12:14.787 we deliver it on time and that it operates well, and that's in the ACE program. 00:12:14.787 --> 00:12:19.455 Steve Hilson is the CBP Lead Executive for the Single Window initiative, 00:12:19.455 --> 00:12:28.463 and I hope you can all give Steve a little round of applause for taking this on. 00:12:28.463 --> 00:12:30.624 Steve is going to coordinate all of the activities 00:12:30.624 --> 00:12:33.543 within CBP in that role with the Single Window. 00:12:33.543 --> 00:12:37.494 He is the primary point of contact for CBP participation 00:12:37.494 --> 00:12:41.830 in all of our U.S. government activities relating to the Single Window 00:12:41.830 --> 00:12:45.781 and that includes his work with the Border Interagency Executive Council, 00:12:45.781 --> 00:12:50.580 the International Trade Data System Board, community stakeholders. 00:12:50.580 --> 00:12:54.027 We should be paying you more money obviously. 00:12:54.027 --> 00:12:57.372 I could go on, but actually there's a lot. 00:12:57.372 --> 00:13:01.835 Well, speaking of the Single Window as part of CBP's trade transformation strategy, 00:13:01.835 --> 00:13:06.689 we've really accelerated the deployment of our import/export processing system, 00:13:06.689 --> 00:13:09.416 the Automated Commercial Environment, ACE. 00:13:09.416 --> 00:13:13.864 You recognize; you clearly recognize what a huge shift this is moving from 00:13:13.864 --> 00:13:17.223 these paper based and fax and original signatures 00:13:17.223 --> 00:13:21.637 and a number of questions that perhaps in this day and age 00:13:21.637 --> 00:13:24.086 aren't as necessary to be asked, 00:13:24.086 --> 00:13:29.478 but because we had always done it that way we always continued to do it that way. 00:13:29.478 --> 00:13:34.332 We've moved to a faster modernized, more cost effective electronic submissions. 00:13:34.332 --> 00:13:36.652 As we close in on key milestones, 00:13:36.652 --> 00:13:39.052 and I could never give a speech without making sure that 00:13:39.052 --> 00:13:41.083 I give those key milestones, 00:13:41.083 --> 00:13:46.274 on May 1 and November 1 of this year and October 2016, 00:13:46.274 --> 00:13:49.249 all key dates that you're well aware of. 00:13:49.249 --> 00:13:53.210 CPB continues to develop tests and deploy the capabilities 00:13:53.210 --> 00:13:56.640 that are all designed to transform cargo processing. 00:13:56.640 --> 00:14:00.016 Many of you know ACE is the core of the executive order 00:14:00.016 --> 00:14:03.158 that was signed by President Obama in 2013. 00:14:03.158 --> 00:14:07.846 So that December 2016 deadline for completion of the government-wide 00:14:07.846 --> 00:14:10.998 automated Single Window would streamline government. 00:14:10.998 --> 00:14:15.821 CBP and DHS are spearheading this effort, and ACE is the Single Window. 00:14:15.821 --> 00:14:18.820 It's going to allow relevant federal agencies to review 00:14:18.820 --> 00:14:23.916 and respond to cargo movement, reduce costs and speed the cargo process. 00:14:23.916 --> 00:14:28.386 And we're working closely with all of our federal partners including the EPA, 00:14:28.386 --> 00:14:30.746 the Food Safety and Inspection Service, 00:14:30.746 --> 00:14:34.618 many others to ensure that ACE is equipped to meet their requirements 00:14:34.618 --> 00:14:36.410 because we have to be a good steward. 00:14:36.410 --> 00:14:38.577 We have to be a good partner with them. 00:14:38.577 --> 00:14:41.952 And that Single Window is completed to serve your needs 00:14:41.952 --> 00:14:44.616 and to simplify international business. 00:14:44.616 --> 00:14:48.607 Well, an area that I'm really excited about is the eBond area. 00:14:48.607 --> 00:14:52.039 Our CFO Jay Williamson is here 00:14:52.039 --> 00:14:56.863 and the people that were involved in this eBond transformation. 00:14:56.863 --> 00:14:58.286 It's pretty exciting. 00:14:58.286 --> 00:15:03.589 So eBond processing in ACE, one of the most important modernization efforts in ACE; 00:15:03.589 --> 00:15:07.605 eBond is a tremendous benefit to both CBP and to the filers, 00:15:07.605 --> 00:15:11.308 customs brokers, self-filing importers, et cetera. 00:15:11.308 --> 00:15:14.876 When filers electronically transmit a bond to CBP 00:15:14.876 --> 00:15:19.474 they get a positive response within 10 to 15 seconds; 00:15:19.474 --> 00:15:22.506 before it was four to five days. 00:15:22.506 --> 00:15:25.953 So you can begin to understand the magnitude of this change 00:15:25.953 --> 00:15:28.994 and its effect on the supply chain. 00:15:28.994 --> 00:15:31.568 Industry has recognized this benefit 00:15:31.568 --> 00:15:36.303 and in the first month of eBonds more than 11,000 bonds were created in ACE. 00:15:36.303 --> 00:15:41.494 Today more than 90% of the CBP bond market is being submitted electronically. 00:15:41.494 --> 00:15:43.214 That's really exciting news. 00:15:43.214 --> 00:15:45.525 It's good for us and it's good for business. 00:15:45.525 --> 00:15:49.852 Another key development are our centers of excellence and expertise. 00:15:49.852 --> 00:15:52.709 And the centers are transforming the way we operate 00:15:52.709 --> 00:15:57.548 by consolidating the industry's processing under the authority of one center. 00:15:57.548 --> 00:16:00.979 So instead of scattering it throughout hundreds of ports of entry 00:16:00.979 --> 00:16:04.987 and perhaps importers getting different answers at different ports of entry, 00:16:04.987 --> 00:16:07.035 these centers benefit everyone. 00:16:07.035 --> 00:16:12.018 They improve our ability to identify high risk cargo and importations. 00:16:12.018 --> 00:16:16.289 They increase the consistency and predictability for the industry. 00:16:16.289 --> 00:16:20.784 And if I've heard one set of watchwords over and over from you all 00:16:20.784 --> 00:16:26.119 for quite some time, it's about the importance of consistency and predictability. 00:16:26.119 --> 00:16:30.527 You're making your business decisions, your budgets, your hiring, on and on and on, 00:16:30.527 --> 00:16:33.974 and you want to make sure that we're going to be in the same position, 00:16:33.974 --> 00:16:37.884 talking with the same set of talking points, 00:16:37.884 --> 00:16:41.925 and moving in the same direction so that as you make these investments 00:16:41.925 --> 00:16:44.084 that we're living up to our potential too. 00:16:44.084 --> 00:16:48.331 And they reduce transactional costs for trade in CBP. 00:16:48.331 --> 00:16:52.938 We have three of CBP's ten centers as of January 28 00:16:52.938 --> 00:16:57.754 are managing all post release activities in their specific areas; 00:16:57.754 --> 00:17:01.224 electronics in Los Angeles, pharmaceuticals in New York, 00:17:01.224 --> 00:17:04.304 petroleum/natural gas and minerals in Houston. 00:17:04.304 --> 00:17:07.793 And we look forward to having the other seven virtual centers 00:17:07.793 --> 00:17:12.599 being able to live up to that full functionality as well. 00:17:12.599 --> 00:17:17.174 Trusted Trader, we're all familiar with Trusted Trader programs 00:17:17.174 --> 00:17:20.007 and they've been a key focus of ours for some time. 00:17:20.007 --> 00:17:22.670 And we're unifying our customs trade partnership 00:17:22.670 --> 00:17:25.813 against terrorism and the importer self-assessment. 00:17:25.813 --> 00:17:30.228 I've heard repeatedly also from people in this room and people that are watching 00:17:30.228 --> 00:17:34.843 that it's important for us to make sure that if someone goes 00:17:34.843 --> 00:17:39.835 and an organization goes to the extra effort and the time to be thoroughly vetted 00:17:39.835 --> 00:17:44.801 to become a member of CTPAT that they're actually experiencing those benefits. 00:17:44.801 --> 00:17:48.449 We needed to and are working hard to do a better job 00:17:48.449 --> 00:17:51.753 of making sure that those benefits are 1, transparent, 00:17:51.753 --> 00:17:53.895 and that they're easily accessible 00:17:53.895 --> 00:17:57.440 and understood by the people that have gone to that extra trouble. 00:17:57.440 --> 00:18:03.735 So whether it's being first in line, whether it's not having cargo held up as long, 00:18:03.735 --> 00:18:06.126 because you've gone through those things to make sure 00:18:06.126 --> 00:18:10.437 that we understand the obligations that we have, 00:18:10.437 --> 00:18:14.605 because you've gone to that extra effort and we appreciate that. 00:18:14.605 --> 00:18:19.876 The Trusted Trader program also aligns the Authorized Economic Operator programs, 00:18:19.876 --> 00:18:24.178 those worldwide programs that are being implemented by other countries, 00:18:24.178 --> 00:18:27.435 and frankly they're being implemented by those other countries 00:18:27.435 --> 00:18:29.538 with our help and our assistance. 00:18:29.538 --> 00:18:33.866 Our over 800 people overseas and the work that we're doing overseas 00:18:33.866 --> 00:18:37.152 is not just about protecting the United States. 00:18:37.152 --> 00:18:40.856 It's also about making sure that by pushing those borders out, 00:18:40.856 --> 00:18:45.744 giving people the information and the help, and letting them experience 1, 00:18:45.744 --> 00:18:48.799 the successes that we've had in implementing these programs, 00:18:48.799 --> 00:18:53.062 but also 2, making sure that they understand that in a very open 00:18:53.062 --> 00:18:55.222 and transparent way we can tell them about things 00:18:55.222 --> 00:18:59.173 that we've tried or worked on and they haven't been quite as successful. 00:18:59.173 --> 00:19:00.373 It saves them time. 00:19:00.373 --> 00:19:01.581 It saves mistakes. 00:19:01.581 --> 00:19:05.356 And frankly it just adds to that trusted relationship when you're 00:19:05.356 --> 00:19:10.171 not only willing to say these are all the great things that we've done at CBP, 00:19:10.171 --> 00:19:12.562 and here's what we're able to do to be helpful. 00:19:12.562 --> 00:19:13.890 But here are some of the things, 00:19:13.890 --> 00:19:17.689 the mistakes that we've made or things that haven't worked out as well. 00:19:17.689 --> 00:19:20.714 And we can save them time and we can save them effort. 00:19:20.714 --> 00:19:24.633 That's what makes a trusted partner when it comes to these issues. 00:19:24.633 --> 00:19:27.864 So we're bringing them together along with us. 00:19:27.864 --> 00:19:31.385 And in designing the program we're coordinating with the trade community, 00:19:31.385 --> 00:19:35.031 other government agencies to build a program of security and 00:19:35.031 --> 00:19:40.758 compliance requirements that's really a value add for them and for us. 00:19:40.758 --> 00:19:44.349 Well, cargo security, there are some people here that are just intimately, 00:19:44.349 --> 00:19:49.268 intimately familiar with ACAS or the Air Cargo Advanced Screening program. 00:19:49.268 --> 00:19:51.859 It shows our collaboration with the private sector 00:19:51.859 --> 00:19:53.700 and other law enforcement agencies, 00:19:53.700 --> 00:19:58.099 really enhances our enforcement and targeting capabilities. 00:19:58.099 --> 00:19:59.922 And of course as many of us know, 00:19:59.922 --> 00:20:03.369 ACAS was launched in the wake of a true terrorist threat, 00:20:03.369 --> 00:20:07.587 the explosives that were hidden in printer cartridges, printer toner cartridges 00:20:07.587 --> 00:20:10.841 and intercepted in express mail shipments from Yemen 00:20:10.841 --> 00:20:14.847 that were destined for the United States in 2010. 00:20:14.847 --> 00:20:19.775 As the national targeting center, CBP and the Transportation Security, TSA, 00:20:19.775 --> 00:20:24.327 jointly target and mitigate air cargo identified as high risk 00:20:24.327 --> 00:20:27.774 before it is loaded on a U.S. bound aircraft. 00:20:27.774 --> 00:20:32.094 And industry has recognized the value of the program, improving national security 00:20:32.094 --> 00:20:37.148 and integrity of the supply chain, and prevents major business disruption. 00:20:37.148 --> 00:20:44.876 Last year industry participation in ACAS grew by 15%.There are now 51 participants. 00:20:44.876 --> 00:20:47.875 We need to continue to collaborate and work together. 00:20:47.875 --> 00:20:51.450 The things that I've described here, Single Window, the centers, 00:20:51.450 --> 00:20:56.233 the Trusted Trader, ACAS, underscore our commitment to working with stakeholders 00:20:56.233 --> 00:20:58.440 and to modernize how we do business. 00:20:58.440 --> 00:21:01.889 COAC is one of the areas that I am most proud of. 00:21:01.889 --> 00:21:06.183 As a key platform collaborate for collaboration with industry, 00:21:06.183 --> 00:21:10.407 the Commercial Operations Advisory Committee is critical. 00:21:10.407 --> 00:21:14.199 It comprises a broad array of private sector representatives, 00:21:14.199 --> 00:21:19.604 each bringing an incredible depth of experience and expertise in customs processes, 00:21:19.604 --> 00:21:24.523 the global supply chain and other fields that can inform and affect how we operate. 00:21:24.523 --> 00:21:27.205 And the parameters for the Single Window for example 00:21:27.205 --> 00:21:31.235 were thoroughly vetted and subjected to careful review and validation 00:21:31.235 --> 00:21:34.883 both within CBP and the interagencies we like to say 00:21:34.883 --> 00:21:37.330 but also within the broader trade community. 00:21:37.330 --> 00:21:39.706 COAC is the key to that process. 00:21:39.706 --> 00:21:42.745 It is an invaluable asset to CBP. 00:21:42.745 --> 00:21:45.473 COAC is an invaluable asset to me. 00:21:45.473 --> 00:21:49.712 I want to be able to announce the selection of the new members of COAC 00:21:49.712 --> 00:21:52.447 and some of them are here 00:21:52.447 --> 00:21:55.712 but Cynthia Allen of DHL Global Forwarding, 00:21:55.712 --> 00:21:58.647 Brenda Barnes of the George S. Bush & Company, 00:21:58.647 --> 00:22:05.846 Jeita Bray of CAUS, Celeste Catano of KEWILL, Lenny Feldman of Sandler, 00:22:05.846 --> 00:22:09.515 Travis & Rosenberg, Lisa Gelsomino of Avalon Risk Management, 00:22:09.515 --> 00:22:12.796 Alexandra Latham of COSTCO, 00:22:12.796 --> 00:22:19.060 Amy Magnus of A.N. Derringer, Adam Salerno U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 00:22:19.060 --> 00:22:22.202 and Madeline Vegal Expediters International, 00:22:22.202 --> 00:22:25.739 Michael White International Air Transport Association, 00:22:25.739 --> 00:22:30.234 and Michael Young Orient Overseas Container Line. 00:22:30.234 --> 00:22:33.968 And they are going to be joined eight reappointed members; 00:22:33.968 --> 00:22:37.960 David Beery of Swift Transportation, Scott Boyer of Kraft Foods, 00:22:37.960 --> 00:22:44.495 Brendan Freed of Air Forward Association, Susanna Hager of Abbott Laboratories, 00:22:44.495 --> 00:22:49.477 Vincent Iacopella of the Janel Group, Elizabeth Merritt Airlines for America, 00:22:49.477 --> 00:22:53.510 and Julianne Parks Raytheon Company, and Kevin Pinnell of Microsoft. 00:22:53.510 --> 00:22:57.684 What a strong and diverse team, internationally type of business, 00:22:57.684 --> 00:23:02.125 everything that you want when you're thinking through these really complex issues. 00:23:02.125 --> 00:23:06.235 And the amount of time and the effort that they spend and the fact that 00:23:06.235 --> 00:23:09.219 they have such great support from their organizations 00:23:09.219 --> 00:23:14.906 and their companies is really unbelievably incredibly helpful to us. 00:23:14.906 --> 00:23:18.762 And I look forward to continuing to work with them. 00:23:18.762 --> 00:23:23.792 Well, interagency collaboration is important as many of you know too. 00:23:23.792 --> 00:23:26.040 We work closely with Treasury 00:23:26.040 --> 00:23:32.286 and Tim Scott could not be a better partner with us in these areas. 00:23:32.286 --> 00:23:37.046 We work closely with something called that Border Interagency Executive Council, 00:23:37.046 --> 00:23:41.406 something that Deputy Secretary Mayorkas takes very seriously 00:23:41.406 --> 00:23:44.470 and is involved in on a regular basis. 00:23:44.470 --> 00:23:48.252 And it's a true commitment by the interagency at the highest level 00:23:48.252 --> 00:23:51.388 to make sure that people are involved in all of these things. 00:23:51.388 --> 00:23:53.898 It brings together those senior leaders to examine 00:23:53.898 --> 00:23:58.658 and improve import and export processes throughout the United States government. 00:23:58.658 --> 00:24:01.810 And we have key leadership roles in the group as it examines 00:24:01.810 --> 00:24:05.993 and makes decisions about risks, how we use information and move cargo, 00:24:05.993 --> 00:24:09.041 collect revenue, enforce health and safety laws. 00:24:09.041 --> 00:24:12.632 All of these discussions are informed by the advice from industry 00:24:12.632 --> 00:24:16.991 to improve the supply chain process and to reduce barriers for trade. 00:24:16.991 --> 00:24:19.543 And the type of collaboration is critical. 00:24:19.543 --> 00:24:21.038 For example during the five years 00:24:21.038 --> 00:24:24.334 that I served as President Obama's drug policy advisor 00:24:24.334 --> 00:24:29.422 I had a good, strong, wonderful working relationship with the FDA. 00:24:29.422 --> 00:24:32.916 That was over the prescription drug and [inaudible 24:31] abuse issues 00:24:32.916 --> 00:24:36.540 that some people are familiar with from quite a bit of attention 00:24:36.540 --> 00:24:38.363 and publicity that it has gotten. 00:24:38.363 --> 00:24:41.522 But we had to have that working relationship with the FDA, 00:24:41.522 --> 00:24:44.955 and so working with Dr. Hamburg as the FDA Commissioner, 00:24:44.955 --> 00:24:48.585 I continued that on when I got the job here at CBP. 00:24:48.585 --> 00:24:50.480 And thanks to that relationship we have 00:24:50.480 --> 00:24:55.232 a CBP/FDA working group that is working together with you all 00:24:55.232 --> 00:25:00.815 in a way to reduce some of the problems of delayed shipment 00:25:00.815 --> 00:25:03.327 and transfer of those programs. 00:25:03.327 --> 00:25:07.942 And I thank Dr. Hamburg as she now after six years at the helm of the FDA 00:25:07.942 --> 00:25:11.662 for her strong leadership as she retires. 00:25:11.662 --> 00:25:14.149 And in our phone call and discussion the other day, 00:25:14.149 --> 00:25:18.373 she's made it clear to the staff and the key leadership within FDA 00:25:18.373 --> 00:25:21.860 that these relationships and this partnership should continue. 00:25:21.860 --> 00:25:24.220 I'm also working very closely with Elliott Kay, 00:25:24.220 --> 00:25:27.091 the Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. 00:25:27.091 --> 00:25:27.922 We've met. 00:25:27.922 --> 00:25:28.867 We've talked. 00:25:28.867 --> 00:25:33.274 We've discussed on how can we be more helpful to CPSC 00:25:33.274 --> 00:25:36.266 and in fact how can we help ease some of the burden? 00:25:36.266 --> 00:25:37.497 We have a lot of people. 00:25:37.497 --> 00:25:39.697 We have a lot of, as we like to say, 00:25:39.697 --> 00:25:43.641 we have a lot of boots on the ground when it comes to our ports of entry. 00:25:43.641 --> 00:25:49.527 We can be a huge benefit and again value add to these other interagencies. 00:25:49.527 --> 00:25:52.503 The more they trust us, the more work we can do with them, 00:25:52.503 --> 00:25:56.184 the more knowledge and understanding that we have about what they do, 00:25:56.184 --> 00:26:02.766 the better we can be in helping them achieve their legislative priorities and goals 00:26:02.766 --> 00:26:05.805 and making sure that they live up to their obligations, 00:26:05.805 --> 00:26:10.348 but then of course the more helpful we can be to all of you. 00:26:10.348 --> 00:26:13.803 Well, during that first year I met with many of the Chamber members. 00:26:13.803 --> 00:26:18.898 It was made abundantly clear that CBP has to continue to be a leader 00:26:18.898 --> 00:26:24.073 internationally on global supply chain security standards and enforcement. 00:26:24.073 --> 00:26:27.353 In my meetings with the World Customs Organization 00:26:27.353 --> 00:26:30.584 at a variety of levels it's been very clear. 00:26:30.584 --> 00:26:37.623 In my travels around the world it has been made very clear to me by our partners 00:26:37.623 --> 00:26:45.878 throughout this global environment how hopeful and helpful we can be to them. 00:26:45.878 --> 00:26:48.910 And I think that's tremendously beneficial. 00:26:48.910 --> 00:26:52.220 You're seeing that move where in many places customs 00:26:52.220 --> 00:26:56.828 is by far a single focus on revenue collection 00:26:56.828 --> 00:27:01.324 and where by far now customs is trying to meet that dual obligation, 00:27:01.324 --> 00:27:03.778 the same obligation that we have 00:27:03.778 --> 00:27:06.483 and that I think we've dealt with successfully 00:27:06.483 --> 00:27:09.059 although we can certainly and will do more. 00:27:09.059 --> 00:27:11.169 But I think that those are the kinds of lessons learned 00:27:11.169 --> 00:27:13.049 that we're going to bring forward. 00:27:13.049 --> 00:27:15.017 We watch; they watch us closely. 00:27:15.017 --> 00:27:19.863 The world watches CBP closely, and we're eager to share our experiences 00:27:19.863 --> 00:27:24.176 with our foreign counterparts so that we can better align policies. 00:27:24.176 --> 00:27:27.311 To that end with the World Customs Organization 00:27:27.311 --> 00:27:32.069 and their 178-member nations we play a large role. 00:27:32.069 --> 00:27:35.749 They have considerable interest in our initiatives and our policies, 00:27:35.749 --> 00:27:39.149 and I have sought every opportunity to engage them 00:27:39.149 --> 00:27:44.403 and to make sure that they know that we are more than willing to be as helpful 00:27:44.403 --> 00:27:47.243 and to provide as much assistance as possible. 00:27:47.243 --> 00:27:52.099 But we need a stronger voice frankly from the United States. 00:27:52.099 --> 00:27:53.507 We have that expertise. 00:27:53.507 --> 00:27:55.266 We have that credibility. 00:27:55.266 --> 00:27:59.240 I couldn't have been more pleased to nominate Ana Hinojosa, 00:27:59.240 --> 00:28:02.537 our Deputy Assistant Commissioner for International Affairs, 00:28:02.537 --> 00:28:08.024 to be the U.S. delegate to WCO's Director of Compliance and Facilitation. 00:28:08.024 --> 00:28:11.520 Ana brings 28 years of experience in CBP. 00:28:11.520 --> 00:28:13.343 She worked on the southwest border. 00:28:13.343 --> 00:28:15.648 She was a port director. 00:28:15.648 --> 00:28:18.821 She can bring all of that to that international body. 00:28:18.821 --> 00:28:22.733 And we have not had someone in one of those elected director positions 00:28:22.733 --> 00:28:27.636 since Commissioner Bonner was in office as the Commissioner of Customs. 00:28:27.636 --> 00:28:31.108 So it's gonna be important and I'm working very hard in trying to 00:28:31.108 --> 00:28:36.547 make sure that people will recognize what a value she will be to WCO 00:28:36.547 --> 00:28:41.537 and to all of the WCO members. 00:28:41.537 --> 00:28:43.898 The security integrity of the global supply chain 00:28:43.898 --> 00:28:46.497 depends on those international partnerships. 00:28:46.497 --> 00:28:49.448 Mutual recognition arrangements are a critical tool 00:28:49.448 --> 00:28:52.696 that align standards to the international community. 00:28:52.696 --> 00:28:58.328 These arrangements provide a platform to exchange Trusted Trader information 00:28:58.328 --> 00:29:02.654 and to harmonize reciprocal supply chain programs. 00:29:02.654 --> 00:29:08.110 During the first year as Commissioner I got to sign four MRA's, Mexico; 00:29:08.110 --> 00:29:12.397 three MRA's, sorry, in Mexico, Israel and Singapore. 00:29:12.397 --> 00:29:15.085 The secretary just signed the agreement 00:29:15.085 --> 00:29:17.780 and I'll take about it in a minute with Canada. 00:29:17.780 --> 00:29:20.548 But bringing together these arrangements is important. 00:29:20.548 --> 00:29:25.307 We only have ten of these by the way since 2003 so you can see that 00:29:25.307 --> 00:29:30.201 we've really tried to speed up that process of getting these in place. 00:29:30.201 --> 00:29:34.930 A key focus has been strengthening our relationship and partnership with Mexico in 00:29:34.930 --> 00:29:40.089 the 2,000 miles of shared border and the 50 ports of entry we have with them. 00:29:40.089 --> 00:29:44.856 Ongoing engagement, building upon the areas identified in the 21st century border 00:29:44.856 --> 00:29:49.400 initiative, improving and expanding border infrastructure. 00:29:49.400 --> 00:29:53.798 So if you've been to San Ysidro lately, you can see that instead of 00:29:53.798 --> 00:29:57.757 the long lines of people waiting to get into the United States 00:29:57.757 --> 00:30:02.500 or cargo or produce waiting to get into the United States that San Ysidro 00:30:02.500 --> 00:30:06.836 has reduced the time, the wait times to a much smaller amount. 00:30:06.836 --> 00:30:09.739 That's because the United States government, taxpayers, 00:30:09.739 --> 00:30:14.028 have made an investment in improving that critical infrastructure. 00:30:14.028 --> 00:30:19.249 So when we team up with a better facility and we team up with more people 00:30:19.249 --> 00:30:22.744 and better technology, we can really speed things through. 00:30:22.744 --> 00:30:26.840 And that's what is going on and is highly visible in San Ysidro 00:30:26.840 --> 00:30:29.888 and then certainly going on in Nogales also. 00:30:29.888 --> 00:30:33.016 So these are the kinds of things and including a new agreement 00:30:33.016 --> 00:30:36.167 for the terminal facility in Tijuana airport. 00:30:36.167 --> 00:30:38.143 But I knew after going back; 00:30:38.143 --> 00:30:40.758 I've been back about four times to San Diego 00:30:40.758 --> 00:30:45.758 and the first time the complaints about the wait times were there. 00:30:45.758 --> 00:30:49.300 This time the complaints were from the venders selling water 00:30:49.300 --> 00:30:52.836 saying people are moving through the line too quick. 00:30:52.836 --> 00:30:55.692 So there's always a complaint. 00:30:55.692 --> 00:30:59.034 As I mentioned, our two countries signed a mutual recognition arrangement 00:30:59.034 --> 00:31:01.379 in October, and this was historic. 00:31:01.379 --> 00:31:07.474 Our CTPAT program and Mexico's NECK program, supply chain security programs, 00:31:07.474 --> 00:31:12.640 each have this mutually recognizable arrangement so that we can have better trust. 00:31:12.640 --> 00:31:16.240 And as we look at designing ports of entry in the future, 00:31:16.240 --> 00:31:22.544 particularly with Mexico and Canada, how can this be done in a more efficient way? 00:31:22.544 --> 00:31:25.279 Well, the northern border in the United States and Canada 00:31:25.279 --> 00:31:28.926 just signed with the Secretary and Minister Blaney 00:31:28.926 --> 00:31:32.934 a history new pre-clearance agreement 00:31:32.934 --> 00:31:36.756 in accord with that 2011 Beyond the Borders action plan. 00:31:36.756 --> 00:31:40.259 That accord covers all modes of transportation 00:31:40.259 --> 00:31:43.698 between the U.S. and Canada, land, rail, marine and air. 00:31:43.698 --> 00:31:46.259 Immigration, customs, agriculture inspections 00:31:46.259 --> 00:31:49.162 required for entry into either country 00:31:49.162 --> 00:31:53.810 will be able to be handled on foreign soil on the opposite side of the border. 00:31:53.810 --> 00:31:58.130 It'll reduce congestion, delays, and increase efficiency and predictability 00:31:58.130 --> 00:32:01.640 in cross border travel, tourism and transportation. 00:32:01.640 --> 00:32:04.640 And the next step required is to implement the new agreement. 00:32:04.640 --> 00:32:08.856 This is for the United States and Canada to now enact legislation. 00:32:08.856 --> 00:32:12.326 Well, that legislation was introduced during the last Congress 00:32:12.326 --> 00:32:14.142 and I'm hopeful that it will be introduced 00:32:14.142 --> 00:32:17.310 and that you will support its passage in this Congress. 00:32:17.310 --> 00:32:18.957 Let me just mention before I close 00:32:18.957 --> 00:32:25.181 a little bit about the future and the change that's going to occur. 00:32:25.181 --> 00:32:28.453 Change is a lot like heaven. 00:32:28.453 --> 00:32:32.971 Kind of everyone wants to get there but no one wants to die. 00:32:32.971 --> 00:32:34.643 So we're working hard. 00:32:34.643 --> 00:32:35.811 And you know who said that? 00:32:35.811 --> 00:32:38.290 I got that statement from Carly Fiorina; 00:32:38.290 --> 00:32:40.490 so a pretty interesting statement. 00:32:40.490 --> 00:32:46.000 What's clear to me in preparing for the future is that we need to reflect 00:32:46.000 --> 00:32:50.991 the realities of your business and the world that you exist in, 00:32:50.991 --> 00:32:53.903 the constant evolution of the global supply chain. 00:32:53.903 --> 00:32:57.767 I recognize that while we have some major efforts already underway, 00:32:57.767 --> 00:33:00.407 there are some areas that need additional focus 00:33:00.407 --> 00:33:03.150 and they need more work and they need more work from us. 00:33:03.150 --> 00:33:09.028 Trade enforcement, over and over again I've never heard anyone say that, 00:33:09.028 --> 00:33:12.573 well, you shouldn't be enforcing or spending as much time on enforcement, 00:33:12.573 --> 00:33:15.652 but you should do it in a consistent, predictable way. 00:33:15.652 --> 00:33:18.140 And those that are violating our trade laws, 00:33:18.140 --> 00:33:21.195 those that are being required of enforcement, 00:33:21.195 --> 00:33:23.107 that it only helps the business, 00:33:23.107 --> 00:33:27.633 the businesses that are in fact playing by the rules 00:33:27.633 --> 00:33:29.585 and that have that level playing field. 00:33:29.585 --> 00:33:31.609 So we need to do a better job in that. 00:33:31.609 --> 00:33:35.184 I heard from congressional leaders about the importance of enforcement 00:33:35.184 --> 00:33:39.984 also and the critical role that we play in protecting our markets. 00:33:39.984 --> 00:33:41.888 We've made some strides. 00:33:41.888 --> 00:33:45.406 For example CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 00:33:45.406 --> 00:33:48.646 we have a new director as many of you know, Sarah Saldana. 00:33:48.646 --> 00:33:52.766 And Sarah was the United States Attorney in Dallas 00:33:52.766 --> 00:33:56.686 so she clearly understands enforcement and prosecution issues. 00:33:56.686 --> 00:34:00.492 So working closely with ICE Homeland Security investigations, 00:34:00.492 --> 00:34:03.772 we're trying to do more training for each of our components. 00:34:03.772 --> 00:34:08.042 We're trying to understand and work through the processes and the operations 00:34:08.042 --> 00:34:13.171 that we can attack smuggling and the growth in shipments of counterfeit goods. 00:34:13.171 --> 00:34:17.521 Many of these pose serious health and threats to public safety 00:34:17.521 --> 00:34:22.032 and also harm our national and economic security. 00:34:22.032 --> 00:34:25.072 And in addition trade penalty assessments have increased 00:34:25.072 --> 00:34:30.552 by 140% from 385 million dollars in fiscal year '11 00:34:30.552 --> 00:34:35.061 to over 900 million dollars in fiscal year 2014. 00:34:35.061 --> 00:34:37.950 But we clearly know that more can be done in that area. 00:34:37.950 --> 00:34:41.996 I know there are other aspects of the trade enforcement area 00:34:41.996 --> 00:34:44.765 that could really improve from our transparency. 00:34:44.765 --> 00:34:49.091 We've gone way out of our way after hearing a number of complaints 00:34:49.091 --> 00:34:50.676 because you're our eyes and ears. 00:34:50.676 --> 00:34:53.275 You give us the information. 00:34:53.275 --> 00:34:56.683 And when you make these complaints or you provide us information 00:34:56.683 --> 00:34:58.969 about things that you believe are wrong 00:34:58.969 --> 00:35:01.442 and things that we should be following up on, 00:35:01.442 --> 00:35:03.961 we haven't been particularly good in making sure that 00:35:03.961 --> 00:35:07.897 we're getting back to you about what did we do and how are we handling it. 00:35:07.897 --> 00:35:09.751 Sometimes the cases are complex. 00:35:09.751 --> 00:35:12.544 They take on a lengthy period of time. 00:35:12.544 --> 00:35:16.640 But still we need to make sure that we're doing a better job in that area. 00:35:16.640 --> 00:35:20.743 The enforcement and collection of anti-dumping and counter-evading duties, 00:35:20.743 --> 00:35:23.014 we're working with industry and Congress 00:35:23.014 --> 00:35:27.901 to increase that communication on those enforcement efforts. 00:35:27.901 --> 00:35:32.276 And reviewing regulations, we have tons and tons and tons of regulations. 00:35:32.276 --> 00:35:35.900 We need to do a better job of reviewing those regulations, 00:35:35.900 --> 00:35:38.651 and we need to do a better job of making sure that 00:35:38.651 --> 00:35:42.107 you have input into some of those regulations. 00:35:42.107 --> 00:35:44.666 And I believe that as many of my leadership team 00:35:44.666 --> 00:35:48.832 really talk about that we can improve and streamline the process. 00:35:48.832 --> 00:35:50.370 It's a complex discussion. 00:35:50.370 --> 00:35:51.752 It's time consuming. 00:35:51.752 --> 00:35:54.128 Many of you devote a lot of time to it. 00:35:54.128 --> 00:35:57.696 I couldn't be more pleased with the incredible amounts of time 00:35:57.696 --> 00:36:02.936 that the COAC members provide on this, but it is invaluable. 00:36:02.936 --> 00:36:06.111 We welcome your ideas, and this type of discussion 00:36:06.111 --> 00:36:08.302 can make a difference in years to come. 00:36:08.302 --> 00:36:11.933 Well, those are some of the efforts I plan on pursuing in the coming year. 00:36:11.933 --> 00:36:16.397 Everything I do as the Commissioner over these next several years, 00:36:16.397 --> 00:36:20.052 as long as the President keeps me, I think I'm supposed to say; 00:36:20.052 --> 00:36:22.500 over the next several years is going to be done 00:36:22.500 --> 00:36:25.236 to increase our trade and security mission. 00:36:25.236 --> 00:36:29.491 CBP plays that critical role in protecting our national security, 00:36:29.491 --> 00:36:34.658 safeguarding the supply chain from terrorism, transnational crime and fraud. 00:36:34.658 --> 00:36:36.514 And we carry out, and I've had a change 00:36:36.514 --> 00:36:41.073 to meet literally thousands and thousands of CBP employees. 00:36:41.073 --> 00:36:46.296 We carry out that mission in a very dedicated way with a professional staff, 00:36:46.296 --> 00:36:50.072 and we continue to make sure that we're hiring the very best people. 00:36:50.072 --> 00:36:53.191 We have to be an agile and a flexible organization. 00:36:53.191 --> 00:36:56.637 Sometimes that bumps up against bureaucracy, 00:36:56.637 --> 00:37:00.615 but I think we can work through many of those things and already have. 00:37:00.615 --> 00:37:05.725 When the world economic forum said that if you remove supply chain barriers 00:37:05.725 --> 00:37:10.459 you can increase the global economy six times more than removing all tariffs, 00:37:10.459 --> 00:37:13.244 everyone should pay attention and listen to that. 00:37:13.244 --> 00:37:15.235 And we have been listening to that. 00:37:15.235 --> 00:37:19.626 I want you to know that I recognize my responsibility to serve all of you 00:37:19.626 --> 00:37:21.979 and appreciate the input and the cooperation 00:37:21.979 --> 00:37:25.026 and the help and the advice and the assistance that you do. 00:37:25.026 --> 00:37:28.009 And we really appreciate having this robust dialogue 00:37:28.009 --> 00:37:29.831 with the Chamber and its members. 00:37:29.831 --> 00:37:32.874 We want to continue to fulfill our commitment 00:37:32.874 --> 00:37:36.887 to operating as a strong law enforcement organization 00:37:36.887 --> 00:37:42.054 while helping America's businesses remain competitive in the global marketplace. 00:37:42.054 --> 00:37:53.068 Thank you all very much. 00:37:53.068 --> 00:37:54.341 Ann Beauchesne: Thank you, Commissioner. 00:37:54.341 --> 00:37:57.051 We have a few minutes for questions, and if I could just ask you 00:37:57.051 --> 00:38:01.939 to state your name and who you're with to ask your question. 00:38:01.939 --> 00:38:03.723 Who would like to start it off? 00:38:03.723 --> 00:38:05.066 You did cover a lot of ground there. 00:38:05.066 --> 00:38:13.786 Thank you, sir. 00:38:13.786 --> 00:38:15.217 Man #1: Well, I thought we had one back here, 00:38:15.217 --> 00:38:18.104 but I will just lead off in the questions. 00:38:18.104 --> 00:38:21.352 There is a vocal group up here so I know you guys will have one soon, 00:38:21.352 --> 00:38:23.664 so, Spencer, get up there. 00:38:23.664 --> 00:38:26.351 Commissioner, thank you again for addressing the Chamber, 00:38:26.351 --> 00:38:31.039 its members and broader membership from other organizations as well. 00:38:31.039 --> 00:38:34.965 We appreciate your partnership as always. 00:38:34.965 --> 00:38:38.790 My question is in regards to your international comments. 00:38:38.790 --> 00:38:41.341 We obviously see the BOLA agreement moving forward 00:38:41.341 --> 00:38:44.556 and the trade facilitation being a big component of that. 00:38:44.556 --> 00:38:48.675 That's really focused on removing global borders and customs, 00:38:48.675 --> 00:38:50.539 customs barriers at borders. 00:38:50.539 --> 00:38:55.762 You mentioned that U.S. Customs can play a big role in the international environment. 00:38:55.762 --> 00:39:03.296 How do you see U.S. Customs taking its best practices and exporting those programs 00:39:03.296 --> 00:39:08.559 but also improving your processes as well and seeing what you could do 00:39:08.559 --> 00:39:12.288 to modernize to rise to the standards of the TFA? 00:39:12.288 --> 00:39:19.669 Gil Kerlikowske: I think we're fortunate to have two things going on right now. 00:39:19.669 --> 00:39:26.060 One is that with Assistant Secretary Bersin having held the helm of CBP 00:39:26.060 --> 00:39:31.580 and now being the Assistant Secretary for International Issues for DHS, 00:39:31.580 --> 00:39:32.860 we have a lot of support. 00:39:32.860 --> 00:39:38.580 One, Alan clearly recognized the value that CBP can bring to other countries. 00:39:38.580 --> 00:39:43.235 And so we're working hard as you look at things and changes in the world. 00:39:43.235 --> 00:39:46.465 We're working hard to expand our international footprint 00:39:46.465 --> 00:39:48.377 and to put more people there. 00:39:48.377 --> 00:39:53.848 In my relations with the Department of State and many of the ambassadors 00:39:53.848 --> 00:39:58.945 that I've had an opportunity to work with, every ambassador in a foreign country 00:39:58.945 --> 00:40:04.159 that has a member of CBP within that embassy 00:40:04.159 --> 00:40:08.877 almost universally tells me how valuable and helpful they are. 00:40:08.877 --> 00:40:11.334 They bring a perspective and information to that. 00:40:11.334 --> 00:40:18.876 So I am intent on moving forward with expanding our international footprint in CBP. 00:40:18.876 --> 00:40:21.956 And right now of course many of you know that we're in negotiation. 00:40:21.956 --> 00:40:27.186 We received letters of interest from 25 airports around the world 00:40:27.186 --> 00:40:30.755 to expand pre-clearance, the same type of pre-clearance we have 00:40:30.755 --> 00:40:34.569 and have had in Canada for a number of years. 00:40:34.569 --> 00:40:36.865 So I think that's particularly important. 00:40:36.865 --> 00:40:40.490 The other is that; and we haven't done this for a while, 00:40:40.490 --> 00:40:44.585 but over the course of the next day and a half or Thursday and Friday 00:40:44.585 --> 00:40:49.271 we'll be taking all of the senior leadership within CBP 00:40:49.271 --> 00:40:54.078 to our advanced training facility at Harper's Ferry for a day and a half, 00:40:54.078 --> 00:40:58.637 perhaps away a little bit from Blackberries and telephones 00:40:58.637 --> 00:41:02.500 to spend some time saying how can we better align. 00:41:02.500 --> 00:41:03.477 We're all busy. 00:41:03.477 --> 00:41:07.148 We all have these silos that we end up operating in. 00:41:07.148 --> 00:41:15.882 How can we harmonize within CBP to meet some of the goals that I mentioned here? 00:41:15.882 --> 00:41:19.418 Ann Beauchesne: Other questions. 00:41:19.418 --> 00:41:20.769 Yes? 00:41:20.769 --> 00:41:21.849 Our microphone is coming to you. 00:41:21.849 --> 00:41:24.880 Thank you. 00:41:24.880 --> 00:41:25.961 Man #2: My name is Clark Dalton. 00:41:25.961 --> 00:41:29.152 I'm from a company called [inaudible41:26] provider of biometrics 00:41:29.152 --> 00:41:34.399 to your old position actually in Seattle in King County, fingerprint system. 00:41:34.399 --> 00:41:37.504 But you alluded in the beginning to the interface 00:41:37.504 --> 00:41:41.239 and challenges of balancing commerce and security, of course, 00:41:41.239 --> 00:41:45.030 whether it's people or goods moving across the border. 00:41:45.030 --> 00:41:51.140 Can you comment briefly on the variable priorities from CBP 00:41:51.140 --> 00:41:55.829 on the new entry/exit biometric border control 00:41:55.829 --> 00:41:59.755 versus goods and management of goods crossing? 00:41:59.755 --> 00:42:03.530 I'm sure everything is a priority. 00:42:03.530 --> 00:42:07.113 Gil Kerlikowske: So I think it's particularly critical right now when it comes to 00:42:07.113 --> 00:42:11.304 the identification of people and things like fraudulent documents. 00:42:11.304 --> 00:42:13.257 There isn't a day that you don't 00:42:13.257 --> 00:42:18.095 pick up some news article about Syrian foreign fighters, 00:42:18.095 --> 00:42:20.470 whether it's people leaving the United States 00:42:20.470 --> 00:42:26.599 and I think the number is certainly less than 200, 00:42:26.599 --> 00:42:31.214 but it's people that have either shown an intent or have gone over to Syria, 00:42:31.214 --> 00:42:33.470 and then of course because they're U.S. citizens 00:42:33.470 --> 00:42:35.708 could return back to the United States. 00:42:35.708 --> 00:42:40.259 What danger, what threat do they pose and how are we recognizing that? 00:42:40.259 --> 00:42:45.388 It's certainly a much more significant concern in Europe, 00:42:45.388 --> 00:42:48.171 the U.K. and other locations. 00:42:48.171 --> 00:42:51.761 But the fraudulent document information and stolen passport, 00:42:51.761 --> 00:42:57.881 not every country will query passports against Interpol's stolen passport database. 00:42:57.881 --> 00:42:58.874 We do. 00:42:58.874 --> 00:43:00.088 Others countries do. 00:43:00.088 --> 00:43:05.016 But that's important that we show that this is, that this is critical. 00:43:05.016 --> 00:43:11.400 When you apply for and ask for the ESTA information to apply to come into 00:43:11.400 --> 00:43:15.526 the United States, there are now additional sets of questions. 00:43:15.526 --> 00:43:20.293 And some of you have read that we're working with facial recognition systems 00:43:20.293 --> 00:43:25.669 in an experiment at Dulles airport, and these are going to continue one. 00:43:25.669 --> 00:43:30.715 So the fraudulent document information is gonna be critical. 00:43:30.715 --> 00:43:36.946 Biometric exit information and of course as everyone in the room also knows, 00:43:36.946 --> 00:43:40.922 our airports really aren't designed for exit, 00:43:40.922 --> 00:43:45.051 and they're designed to get people onto the airplanes 00:43:45.051 --> 00:43:47.552 but not through certain portals, et cetera. 00:43:47.552 --> 00:43:48.632 So we're gonna have to; 00:43:48.632 --> 00:43:50.759 we have to think through that pretty clearly. 00:43:50.759 --> 00:43:56.208 How can we work with technology given infrastructure constraints 00:43:56.208 --> 00:43:58.087 to work in those areas? 00:43:58.087 --> 00:44:02.967 So I think that the verification of people is critical. 00:44:02.967 --> 00:44:06.030 The agriculture inspections are still gonna be critical 00:44:06.030 --> 00:44:12.125 and then the screening and risk-based analysis of cargo. 00:44:12.125 --> 00:44:14.692 Ann Beauchesne: Mike Mullen. 00:44:14.692 --> 00:44:17.763 Man #3: I'm Mike Mullen from the Express Association of America, 00:44:17.763 --> 00:44:19.994 and thank you for those remarks, Commissioner. 00:44:19.994 --> 00:44:23.667 I was happy to hear you emphasize the relationship you have 00:44:23.667 --> 00:44:27.506 with the other government agencies in the context of the BIC 00:44:27.506 --> 00:44:32.769 and the effort to implement the Single ITDS Window. 00:44:32.769 --> 00:44:36.337 And I think I can speak for a lot of people in this room 00:44:36.337 --> 00:44:43.943 in saying that we feel of all the government agencies CBP has the best grasp, 00:44:43.943 --> 00:44:47.806 the sort of deepest understanding of risk management, 00:44:47.806 --> 00:44:51.317 and that that's an area where a lot of the other agencies 00:44:51.317 --> 00:44:56.773 for a host of cultural and historical reasons have a much different perspective. 00:44:56.773 --> 00:45:01.716 So my question is I know this is being discussed in the auspices of the BIC. 00:45:01.716 --> 00:45:08.491 How far do you think you can go or how do you see the government 00:45:08.491 --> 00:45:12.761 implementing a single approach to risk management that from our point of view 00:45:12.761 --> 00:45:18.713 hopefully will look a lot more like CBP's than what some of the other agencies use? 00:45:18.713 --> 00:45:22.464 Gil Kerlikowske: I think that the fact that we have such a leadership role 00:45:22.464 --> 00:45:27.015 with the Deputy Secretary and the border interagency 00:45:27.015 --> 00:45:32.287 and having been the United States Attorney in Los Angeles, 00:45:32.287 --> 00:45:36.343 he clearly kind of has that understanding of that balance. 00:45:36.343 --> 00:45:42.565 And I think all of us particularly inside the Beltway know that 00:45:42.565 --> 00:45:48.300 the usual parochial way is to close our arms, make no comment, 00:45:48.300 --> 00:45:51.684 say that we don't make mistakes and things can't happen; 00:45:51.684 --> 00:45:56.243 but I kind of go back and take my experience as a police chief for a long time. 00:45:56.243 --> 00:45:58.531 No mayor, no city council held me 00:45:58.531 --> 00:46:03.312 to a crime-free city of Seattle or a crime-free city of Buffalo. 00:46:03.312 --> 00:46:09.488 And yet there are times some elected officials like to hold folks like me 00:46:09.488 --> 00:46:11.616 accountable for no one should cross the border. 00:46:11.616 --> 00:46:14.360 A secure border is that no one will ever get in. 00:46:14.360 --> 00:46:18.239 And if only we'd do more, things will be better. 00:46:18.239 --> 00:46:23.134 We need to not do more when it comes to huge expenditures. 00:46:23.134 --> 00:46:27.958 We need to do more when it comes to being smart, to being good partners, 00:46:27.958 --> 00:46:33.188 to using intelligence, to using technology, when it comes to border security, 00:46:33.188 --> 00:46:37.555 trade security or the people coming into the country and doing that. 00:46:37.555 --> 00:46:44.107 And I think the more we can talk about that in a very direct way the more cover 00:46:44.107 --> 00:46:50.889 or protection it gives to my colleagues and other federal agencies. 00:46:50.889 --> 00:46:52.105 Ann Beauchesne: Yes? 00:46:52.105 --> 00:46:58.744 Go ahead. 00:46:58.744 --> 00:47:02.671 Woman #1: Commissioner, good to see you, Mary Ann Conta with UPS. 00:47:02.671 --> 00:47:08.566 Can you give us a few thoughts about your work on Beyond the Border and how you're 00:47:08.566 --> 00:47:15.341 going to move forward just working with CBSA on opening the pre-clearance? 00:47:15.341 --> 00:47:18.557 Gil Kerlikowske: So CBSA will still require 00:47:18.557 --> 00:47:22.972 through the government of Canada legislation to allow that. 00:47:22.972 --> 00:47:28.235 I think we'll be able to move a little bit more quickly when it comes to that. 00:47:28.235 --> 00:47:31.052 I think given the strong working relationship 00:47:31.052 --> 00:47:36.754 that the two agencies have that hosting and sharing with CBSA 00:47:36.754 --> 00:47:42.169 their ability to do some of the work after legislation here in the United States, 00:47:42.169 --> 00:47:48.679 where they can be to work within the United States is absolutely fine. 00:47:48.679 --> 00:47:52.624 There are so many now; 00:47:52.624 --> 00:47:56.973 there are so many systems now that are available to verify the work 00:47:56.973 --> 00:48:02.917 that's being done whether it's video systems, tracking systems, et cetera, 00:48:02.917 --> 00:48:07.564 that an overarching concern that, well, someone, 00:48:07.564 --> 00:48:10.036 a representative from Canada is doing this, 00:48:10.036 --> 00:48:12.627 or it's a representative from the United States. 00:48:12.627 --> 00:48:15.043 We should be able to trust each other. 00:48:15.043 --> 00:48:18.034 And of course we also have those systems in place. 00:48:18.034 --> 00:48:25.002 I think that that agreement that has received so much support 00:48:25.002 --> 00:48:28.058 will continue to receive support from industries 00:48:28.058 --> 00:48:33.856 on both sides of the border as they work with both our United States Congress 00:48:33.856 --> 00:48:38.974 and Canada's legislature and government to move forward. 00:48:38.974 --> 00:48:42.350 Ann Beauchesne: Over here? 00:48:42.350 --> 00:48:43.710 Woman #2: Good morning, Commissioner. 00:48:43.710 --> 00:48:46.294 Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with us. 00:48:46.294 --> 00:48:49.165 I apologize if I bring up a subject that you already discussed, 00:48:49.165 --> 00:48:51.166 but I was a little late. 00:48:51.166 --> 00:48:56.268 The question has to do with port departure filing, 00:48:56.268 --> 00:49:01.132 and I should mention that many in industry are very concerned who now 00:49:01.132 --> 00:49:05.441 enjoy the benefits of port departure filing may lose that benefit 00:49:05.441 --> 00:49:10.155 because [inaudible 49:06] has asked us to eliminate it. 00:49:10.155 --> 00:49:13.489 I was just wondering if you see any way possible that a solution 00:49:13.489 --> 00:49:17.448 could be reached that would satisfy international security concerns 00:49:17.448 --> 00:49:19.321 and at the same time preserve this great benefit 00:49:19.321 --> 00:49:23.184 for some of the companies that need it and deserve it. 00:49:23.184 --> 00:49:23.888 Gil Kerlikowske: Thanks. 00:49:23.888 --> 00:49:27.750 I mean, you really hit me with a question that I couldn't even begin to answer. 00:49:27.750 --> 00:49:29.095 So just so you know. 00:49:29.095 --> 00:49:32.318 Woman #2: May I say that I was worried that it might not have gotten to your level, 00:49:32.318 --> 00:49:34.061 but I decided to ask it anyway. 00:49:34.061 --> 00:49:38.940 Gil Kerlikowske: Somehow I think it will now. 00:49:38.940 --> 00:49:39.549 Woman #2: I'm sorry. 00:49:39.549 --> 00:49:40.965 What did you say? 00:49:40.965 --> 00:49:46.556 Gil Kerlikowske: I think, I think it'll get to my level now. 00:49:46.556 --> 00:49:50.602 Man #4: Commissioner, Bill Oriel from National Association of Beverage Importers. 00:49:50.602 --> 00:49:59.177 The trade and labor went through just a horrible port slowdown on the West Coast 00:49:59.177 --> 00:50:02.921 that's just being alleviated right now. 00:50:02.921 --> 00:50:07.232 Customs was somewhat of a bystander on that, but I'm asking. 00:50:07.232 --> 00:50:09.952 You must've gone through that too, getting briefings all the time. 00:50:09.952 --> 00:50:13.527 Are there any lessons learned for Customs having gone through 00:50:13.527 --> 00:50:18.150 that kind of experience on the West Coast and the huge impacts it had on trade? 00:50:18.150 --> 00:50:19.606 Gil Kerlikowske: Yeah, I think there are, Bill. 00:50:19.606 --> 00:50:22.613 And listen, I know you just stepped off COAC 00:50:22.613 --> 00:50:26.558 and we thank you very much for your service on that. 00:50:26.558 --> 00:50:28.476 That was tremendously helpful. 00:50:28.476 --> 00:50:32.147 But we watched that very carefully, and you know, it kind of hit home 00:50:32.147 --> 00:50:36.340 because I'd hear from people in Washington State about the apple crop 00:50:36.340 --> 00:50:42.354 that actually was not able to reach an export market so the costs were tremendous. 00:50:42.354 --> 00:50:47.217 And you'd like to see some type of labor peace 00:50:47.217 --> 00:50:50.600 because when I was the police chief in Seattle we had six years; 00:50:50.600 --> 00:50:53.873 we had the slowdown also. 00:50:53.873 --> 00:50:56.143 So it creates some difficulties. 00:50:56.143 --> 00:51:03.334 Todd Owen, both in his position now but also in his position at Long Beach in LAX, 00:51:03.334 --> 00:51:06.653 Todd worked very hard to have in place 00:51:06.653 --> 00:51:10.878 a whole series of additional support mechanisms, 00:51:10.878 --> 00:51:13.749 whether when it was actually going to be settled 00:51:13.749 --> 00:51:16.677 and now things were going to be moving more quickly. 00:51:16.677 --> 00:51:19.355 Would we be bringing in people TDY? 00:51:19.355 --> 00:51:21.690 Would we be bringing people in on overtime? 00:51:21.690 --> 00:51:23.482 Would we have extra shifts? 00:51:23.482 --> 00:51:26.620 What are the different things that we could do? 00:51:26.620 --> 00:51:28.971 Those port directors have been pretty amazing, 00:51:28.971 --> 00:51:31.082 whether it's Oakland, Seattle, et cetera, 00:51:31.082 --> 00:51:36.328 of being able to shift some of their resources away from other locations 00:51:36.328 --> 00:51:40.633 when it came time that the cranes were operating fully 00:51:40.633 --> 00:51:42.224 and the cargo was coming off 00:51:42.224 --> 00:51:45.920 to make sure that now there wasn't a new holdup, and it would've been us. 00:51:45.920 --> 00:51:49.472 So we learned the lessons from six years ago, 00:51:49.472 --> 00:51:53.046 and we had them, and we learned a few more lessons this time. 00:51:53.046 --> 00:51:54.749 Thanks, Bill. 00:51:54.749 --> 00:51:57.686 Ann Beauchesne: We have time for one more question back here. 00:51:57.686 --> 00:52:00.621 Man #5: Hi, Commissioner, David Richardson with Southwest Airlines. 00:52:00.621 --> 00:52:02.036 Thanks for coming out today. 00:52:02.036 --> 00:52:06.044 Just congratulations on the pre-clearance agreement with Canada. 00:52:06.044 --> 00:52:10.452 Could you please address the possibility of possibly some sort of 00:52:10.452 --> 00:52:13.348 pre-clearance agreement with Mexico in the future? 00:52:13.348 --> 00:52:15.531 Gil Kerlikowske: I think Mexico is a little further off 00:52:15.531 --> 00:52:18.138 when it comes onto the pre-clearance. 00:52:18.138 --> 00:52:21.697 By the way, the government of Mexico and several of the airports, 00:52:21.697 --> 00:52:28.968 mostly in the high tourist destinations, have shown an interest in doing that. 00:52:28.968 --> 00:52:33.023 I think we've made a good first step with a mutual recognition arrangement 00:52:33.023 --> 00:52:40.038 on trade and cargo security where we're both recognizing our mutual programs 00:52:40.038 --> 00:52:44.037 for vetting traders, Trusted Trader programs. 00:52:44.037 --> 00:52:48.518 And I think that we can expand upon that when it comes to passengers also. 00:52:48.518 --> 00:52:50.869 I think it's a little further. 00:52:50.869 --> 00:52:55.812 I think it's a little further down the road for the pre-clearance in Mexico. 00:52:55.812 --> 00:52:58.203 But it was heartening to see; 00:52:58.203 --> 00:53:04.273 it was heartening to see a couple letters from others, so good, thanks. 00:53:04.273 --> 00:53:06.153 Ann Beauchesne: Commissioner, clearly a lot of progress 00:53:06.153 --> 00:53:08.816 has been made under your leadership, terrific job. 00:53:08.816 --> 00:53:09.793 Thank you. 00:53:09.793 --> 00:53:11.800 I guess I just want to give you the opportunity, 00:53:11.800 --> 00:53:14.065 anything that you haven't been asked this morning 00:53:14.065 --> 00:53:18.040 that you'd like to hit on or anything that the Chamber and our members 00:53:18.040 --> 00:53:21.487 and the private sector can be doing more of in the next couple of years 00:53:21.487 --> 00:53:23.128 with you and your team. 00:53:23.128 --> 00:53:28.526 Gil Kerlikowske: Yeah, I think that the burden falls on us quite a bit. 00:53:28.526 --> 00:53:32.494 People like Todd and Brenda and Marie Eloisa are very busy, 00:53:32.494 --> 00:53:38.397 but I have never seen them not take the opportunity to attend one of your meetings, 00:53:38.397 --> 00:53:42.236 one of your conferences, to have some of the very smart people 00:53:42.236 --> 00:53:47.483 like Steve and others to be able to brief, and we do that a lot. 00:53:47.483 --> 00:53:50.187 We spend a lot of time and effort in that. 00:53:50.187 --> 00:53:54.369 And I think it's time and effort that is well spent. 00:53:54.369 --> 00:53:57.480 So you should not be, and I don't think you have been. 00:53:57.480 --> 00:54:00.072 You should not be the least bit hesitant 00:54:00.072 --> 00:54:05.671 in asking and demanding of us that we continue and do more. 00:54:05.671 --> 00:54:06.351 Thank you. 00:54:06.351 --> 00:54:07.064 Ann Beauchesne: Thank you. 00:54:07.064 --> 00:54:07.871 Thank you, Commissioner. 00:54:07.871 --> 00:54:09.911 I appreciate it.