CBP Continues Temporary Reduced Hours At Ports Of Entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection will continue to operate six ports of entry in Montana and one in Idaho at reduced hours through July 21.
In order to limit the further spread of coronavirus, the U.S. has reached agreements with both Canada and Mexico to limit all non-essential travel across borders. Working closely and collaboratively, the Department of Homeland Security is part of a North American approach to stop the spread of the virus.
These measures were implemented on March 21 and were originally in place for 30 days, subject to reevaluation and further extension in light of the fluid nature of the coronavirus pandemic. On April 20, these measures were extended for an additional 30 days; on May 19, these measures were extended until June 22; and on June 16, these measures were once again extended until July 21.
The affected ports of entry include: Raymond, Opheim, Morgan, Turner, Del Bonita and Piegan in Montana and Porthill in Idaho. The listed ports will continue to operate on the following temporary reduced hours:
•Raymond POE: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
•Opheim POE: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.
•Morgan POE: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.
•Turner POE: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.
•Del Bonita POE: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday.
•Piegan POE: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.
•Porthill, Idaho POE: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
Additionally, CBP delayed the resumption of the summer hours schedule at the port of Wild Horse. Wild Horse will continue to operate on its winter hours schedule of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
The opening of the seasonal port of Chief Mountain has also been delayed due to the current travel restrictions.
“Non-essential” travel includes travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
The Department of Homeland Security will ensure that the measures taken at our borders will protect America from all threats, including threats against the health and safety of our citizens. Based on the success of the existing restrictions and the emergence of additional global COVID-19 hotspots, the department will continue to limit non-essential travel at our land ports of entry with Canada and Mexico. This extension protects Americans while keeping essential trade and travel flowing as we reopen the American economy.
The Department of Homeland Security is in close contact with their Canadian and Mexican counterparts regarding this extension, and all agree on the need to extend their non-essential travel restrictions as well.
