DHS' own Integrity Advisory
Panel and the GAO have both recommended that the current polygraph
testing be expanded, not reduced, given the higher rates of corruption
at CBP than any other Federal law enforcement agency. This bill takes us backward, and some current and former DHS
officials have expressed concerns that the bill could expose the agency
to corrupt individuals who could undermine the integrity of the
workforce. DHS Inspector General John Roth warned that the proposed legislation
``could put CBP at significant risk and that while it may sound
reasonable to say you could waive requirements from former military
personnel because they have passed a polygraph, Border Patrol agents
work in a different environment that is not as controlled as the
military.''
Former CBP head of Internal Affairs has stated that ``very few
members of the military take polygraphs or have comprehensive
background checks, and the quality of State or local law enforcement
polygraphs varies widely.''
My amendment would delay the implementation of the bill until, one,
CBP completes its ongoing pilot program of an alternative polygraph
test that may help speed up hiring while maintaining vetting standards;
and, two, the DHS inspector general determines that the bill would not
endanger our national security, undermine workforce integrity, or, in
fact, increase corruption. I recognize that CBP is managing hiring and staffing issues. Passing
this bill without knowing its potential risks or consequences is not
only shortsighted, but I think it is irresponsible.
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Border Patrol