Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) joined Senator Martha McSally (R-Ariz.) in sending a letter to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Acting Commissioner Mark Morgan requesting information on the agency's readiness to prevent the transmission of coronavirus across the border.
The letter opens with, "As southern border Senators, we are concerned about the possible spread of the coronavirus across our borders." The senators asked Acting Commissioner Morgan "how your agency is prepared to address the threat presented by the coronavirus at U.S. borders."
The senators listed specific issues, including how the agency is searching for potential cases, if the agency foresees a need for additional emergency staffing, and if the agency is prepared for the possibility of an outbreaking a detention facility.
The senators referenced the impact the H1N1 virus had on many countries in 2009, and asked what plan CBP implemented to try to prevent the spread of swine flu.
The senators concluded the letter by saying it is "imperative that your agency members are protecte and that local officials in border states are informed."
Full letter:
