Congressman Dave Joyce introduced a bill to require U.S. Customs and Border Protection to establish a pilot program to adopt dogs from local animal shelters to be trained as part of the agency’s Support Canine Program.

The CBP in 2023 launched the Support Canine Program to improve staff morale, assist in grief, aid in trauma recovery from critical incidents and strengthen community outreach.

This bill — co-sponsored by Joyce, R-Bainbridge, whose district includes all of Trumbull County, and U.S. Rep. Lou Correa, a California Democrat — would enhance the program by creating a three-year pilot program to adopt dogs from local animal shelters and train them as support dogs.

It is called the Providing Emotional Assistance with Relief and Love Act. Pearl was the name of the border patrol’s first therapy dog.

Since 2017, more than 150 CBP employees have committed suicide and operate in high-stress environments, according to Joyce’s office.

Joyce said, “Behind every border security mission are men and women who routinely face difficult and often traumatic situations in the line of duty. While the physical demands of the job are well known, the emotional impact is often overlooked. The PEARL Act recognizes that supporting the mental health of CBP personnel is an essential part of supporting the mission. Expanding the Support Canine Program will provide an additional source of support for personnel while giving dogs from local shelters a second chance to serve.”