Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Extensive registration and background checks of both facilities and per-
sonnel were conducted. However, because of delays at the Federal Bureau
Investigation (FBI) in processing security clearance paperwork, provisional reg-
istrations were issued to laboratories that had submitted paperwork by estab-
lished deadlines.
Homeland Security Act
The main purpose of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-296, November
25, 2002) was to create the DHS, primarily by transferring parts or all of many
agencies throughout the federal government into the new cabinet-level department.
In doing so, the law made two major changes to the facilities and functions of the
Department of Agriculture. The Homeland Security Act transferred
◾
Agricultural border inspections from APHIS to DHS.
◾
Possession of the Plum Island Animal Disease Center in New York from
USDA to DHS.
Agricultural Border Inspections
Section 421 of the Homeland Security Act authorized the transfer of up to 3200
APHIS border inspection personnel to DHS. As of March 1, 2003, approximately
2680 APHIS inspectors became employees of DHS in the Bureau of Customs and
Border Inspection (CBP). Because of its scientific expertise, USDA retains a signifi-
cant presence in border inspection.
Historically, the APHIS Agricultural Quarantine Inspection (AQI) program
was considered the most significant and prominent of agricultural and food inspec-
tions at the border. Because of this prominence, AQI was one of the many programs
selected for inclusion when DHS was created. Some drafts of the bill creating the
new department would have transferred all of APHIS (including, for example, ani-
mal welfare and disease eradication) to DHS. Concerns from many farm interest
groups about the impact this might have on diagnosis and treatment of natural
plant and animal diseases prompted a legislative compromise that transferred only
the border inspection function and left other activities under USDA.
DHS-CBP personnel now inspect international conveyances and the baggage
of passengers for plant, animal, and related products that could harbor pests or
disease organisms. They also inspect ship and air cargo, rail and truck freight, and
package mail from foreign countries.
Although the border inspection functions were transferred to DHS, the USDA
retains a significant presence in border activities. APHIS employees who were not
transferred continue to preclear certain commodities, inspect all plant propaga-
tive materials, and check animals in quarantine. APHIS personnel continue to set
