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Customs and biosecurity seek overtime funds, note K-9 gaps and invasive-species responses
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Summary
Customs and Biosecurity directors told the committee they requested overtime funding to cover non-billable enforcement work, are filling four funded vacancies, rely on Saipan for some certifications and K-9 capability, and have used vessel returns to Guam to remove invasive species.
Officials from customs and biosecurity told the House committee that the division needs additional overtime funding to cover after-hours enforcement and other non-billable operations and that staffing and equipment gaps affect readiness.
Major (Customs and Biosecurity) told the committee the division requested $20,000 for overtime to cover "special operations" and after-hours work that is not billable to consignees. He confirmed that overtime related to vessel or cargo inspections that can be billed to a consignee is billed; the requested amount covers enforcement and other non-billable demands.
Vacancies and K-9 capacity Committee members confirmed the office was assigned four positions in FY2025; three were partially funded at the dollar level and one position remained funded but vacant pending hiring. Major said the department is filling the advertised vacancies and that Saipan often provides K-9 handlers and equipment on request because of proximity and resource sharing.
Invasive species and inspections Customs and Biosecurity said they have found invasive species in incoming shipments (the transcript cites discovery of small fire ants on a vessel). In that case, the vessel was returned to Guam for treatment; the consignee covered the cost. Major said the agency coordinates with Guam counterparts for cleaning and clearance, then allows discharge once the issue is resolved.
Procedures and procurement Committee members asked whether customs receives vessel arrival schedules, and Major confirmed the office receives schedules and conducts inspections locally in Tinian. The office said it does not receive separate federal grant funding for biosecurity operations at entry points and often uses local requisition and procurement channels for supplies.
Certification and training Members asked about firearm training and ammunition for officers. Major said customs maintains instructors and that Saipan procures ammunition and schedules certifications; availability can affect certification cadence. Committee members urged the office to examine fee structures for port services and to coordinate overtime billing and landing fees with CPA and other agencies where feasible.
