BEST Facilitation Act

The "Border Enforcement, Security, and Trade Facilitation Act of 2025" proposes a pilot program within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations to introduce new Image Technician positions. This initiative aims to enhance the review of non-intrusive inspection images of conveyances and containers entering or exiting the United States at various ports of entry. The bill establishes two roles: Image Technician 1 and Image Technician 2 . Both are civilian positions, not law enforcement officers , and are tasked with reviewing images to identify anomalies indicative of contraband, unlawful entry, or illicit merchandise. They will recommend either release or further inspection to a supervising CBP Officer, who retains final decision-making authority. Image Technician 2s have additional duties, including receiving and reporting intelligence on tactics used by malign actors. These technicians will operate from five regional command centers to be established under the program. All image technicians will receive specialized training on image analysis, identifying illicit items, and respecting privacy and civil liberties, alongside annual performance assessments. The pilot program is set to run for 5 years , after which the amendment establishing it will cease to have effect, though technicians may transfer to comparable positions within CBP or the Department of Homeland Security. The Commissioner of CBP is required to submit semiannual reports and provide biannual briefings to Congress, detailing the program's staffing, training methodologies, and its impact on interdiction rates, throughput, and wait times at ports of entry.