Bill would let CBP train shelter dogs as workplace support animals
Passed one chamberH.R. 3965Latest action
Sponsor: Tony Gonzales · Representative · TX
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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The PEARL Act creates a three-year CBP pilot program training shelter dogs as support animals for employees.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 3965, the PEARL Act, directs the Department of Homeland Security to launch a pilot program within CBP that adopts dogs from local shelters and trains them as support dogs. The dogs would join CBP's existing Support Canine Program. CBP must start the program within 60 days of enactment, and the pilot would run for three years.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects CBP operations, local animal shelters, and CBP employees who may work with support dogs. It does not affect the general public or immigration enforcement policy.
Why does it matter?
By sourcing dogs from shelters instead of breeders, the program tests whether shelter animals can be effectively trained for support roles within CBP. The bill is limited to internal CBP animal acquisition and training practices and does not alter border security operations or public-facing law.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Referred in Senate” text of Nov 20, 2025.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 12, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Nov 20, 2025
- 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 and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.