Secretary Ridge, responding to a letter from Senator Collins, wrote, "We appreciate that border communities in Maine … are integrated at every level-from emergency services to cultural events to commercial activities. We are working with Canadian officials on new ways to bring to life the words ‘smart borders.'… The Department's Bureau of Customs and Border Protection plans to open a FAST enrollment center in Houlton by the end of the year."
"The residents and businesses on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border depend on each other to succeed," said Senator Collins. "By facilitating the speedy shipment of goods across the U.S.-Canada border, the FAST program will help strengthen the economic lifeline that links our communities."
The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program provides expedited border processing for companies that meet stringent qualifications. To qualify, participants must enhance the security of their manufacturing plants, warehouses and shipping systems under the auspices of the U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) and document their security procedures in the FAST application. For example, companies would be required to show that they have improved the physical security of their facilities and conveyances, trained employees in security procedures, and taken steps to protect data and manifest records. Company drivers also would be required to undergo background checks and in-person interviews at a FAST enrollment center. Placing the enrollment center in Houlton will benefit businesses in the area by making it easier for them to register.
Within two years, CBP anticipates adding a FAST lane at the Houlton crossing, which would enable FAST enrollees to significantly speed their passages over the border.