CBP to launch pilot turning shelter dogs into support canines
Passed one chamberH.R. 9327Latest action
Sponsor: David P. Joyce · Representative · OH
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: PEARL Act
119th Congress
Topics: Immigration
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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CBP must launch a three-year pilot adopting shelter dogs to train as support canines within 60 days of enactment.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The PEARL Act directs CBP to create a pilot program adopting dogs from local animal shelters and training them as support dogs within its existing Support Canine Program. The Secretary of Homeland Security has 60 days after enactment to start the program, which runs for three years before automatically ending unless extended.
Who does it affect?
CBP, local animal shelters that could partner with the agency, and shelter dogs are directly affected. CBP staff, travelers, and people in stressful situations at the border, such as crime victims, may also interact with these dogs.
Why does it matter?
The program creates a new, temporary partnership between CBP and animal shelters but does not alter immigration enforcement or border security law.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 18, 2026
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Sep 16, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate.