National Police Association Backs PEARL Act to Aid CBP Agents

The National Police Association (NPA) has endorsed the Providing Emotional Assistance with Relief and Love Act (H.R. 3965), a bill aimed at enhancing the mental health support for agents of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This initiative, referred to as the PEARL Act, establishes a three-year pilot program that allows CBP to adopt dogs from local shelters and train them to serve as therapeutic support animals for agents.

January 9, 2026 marks a significant step in addressing the mental health challenges faced by border patrol agents, as the bill has already passed in the House and is currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. The PEARL Act not only seeks to improve the wellbeing of agents but also to alleviate overcrowding at animal shelters by giving homeless dogs a meaningful purpose.

Benefits of Support Dogs for Mental Health

Support dogs have been recognized for their therapeutic benefits, particularly in helping individuals cope with trauma, stress, and grief. Research indicates that interacting with dogs can release oxytocin and lower stress hormones, facilitating emotional healing. According to Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director at the NPA, “There is significant evidence that support dogs provide relief for individuals suffering with maladies like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.”

The PEARL Act builds upon the existing Support Canine Program initiated by CBP in 2023, which was created in response to a notable increase in mental health incidents among agents. The new legislation allocates $1 million in federal funding for the pilot program, reinforcing the commitment to ensuring that agents have access to effective mental health resources.

Legislative Support and Future Prospects

The NPA expresses its gratitude to Rep. Tony Gonzales from Texas for sponsoring this bipartisan legislation. Fitzsimmons highlighted the importance of the bill, stating, “The PEARL Act will provide CBP with additional support dogs to help agents overcome mental health struggles and improve agency morale.”

As the bill moves to the Senate, the NPA urges lawmakers to prioritize its passage, emphasizing the dual impact on both CBP agents and abandoned dogs. The association believes that this cost-effective approach can lead to significant improvements in mental health for agents who regularly confront distressing situations.

In conclusion, the PEARL Act represents a promising development in mental health support for law enforcement personnel, while also addressing issues within animal shelters. By integrating support dogs into the workplace, the initiative aims to foster a healthier, more resilient workforce within the CBP.

For those interested in supporting pro-police legislation, the NPA encourages joining its Call to Action team to stay informed about ongoing legislative efforts. More information can be found at NationalPolice.org.