Southwest Montana News

Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) sent a letter to the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Commissioner at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Troy Miller, addressing concerns over CBP’s management priorities at the Opheim Port of Entry in Opheim, Montana.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the port operated from 9 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week. Since then, the hours have been reduced to 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. This schedule remains in place even after the pandemic has ended. The change in hours affects Montanan producers by putting them at a disadvantage compared to their Canadian counterparts, who have longer operational hours.

CBP attributes the reduced hours to a lack of funding but plans to build gazebos and install solar panels on all six border patrol houses at the port, despite only one house being currently used. Rep. Rosendale criticized these financial and management decisions and urged CBP to restore the Opheim Port's pre-pandemic operating hours immediately.

“There is absolutely no reason for COVID restrictions to still be in effect anywhere,” said Rep. Rosendale. “Instead of prioritizing luxurious gazebos and ineffective solar panels, CBP should instead put those funds towards making sure Montanan producers have an operational port that is fully operational. CBP must immediately open the Opheim Port back to its pre-COVID-19 hours!”