A coalition of business groups in Illinois, including the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, and the Chemical Industry Council of Illinois, has joined counterparts from 16 other states in urging the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to reconsider the suspension of rail crossings at El Paso and Eagle Pass, Texas.
The temporary closure, initiated on Monday, was a response to the escalating influx of migrants, with CBP reallocating resources to address the situation and apprehend migrants.
Rail Crossings Between US and Mexico Remain Suspended
The rail crossings affected by the suspension play a critical role in transporting goods for American consumers and businesses.
Mark Denzler, President of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, emphasized the potential economic repercussions of the stoppage, particularly as the holiday season approaches.
He highlighted the impact on the intermodal port, where goods are unloaded and transferred to trucks for distribution.
Denzler expressed concerns about the ripple effect on the economy, noting that truck drivers may face idle periods if loads are not coming in.
Additionally, perishable goods, such as food products or grains, could be at risk of spoilage if delays persist. The halted rail traffic accounts for approximately 45% of BNSF and Union Pacific rail traffic between the US and Mexico.
“There’s beer, for example, that’s coming across the border just sitting there. Food products or grains potentially could spoil if it sits there too long,” Denzler explained.
“Americans who are looking for consumer products, who are looking to buy that electronic or that automobile, may not be able to find it at their store because it’s sitting right now.”
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Illinois Leads Effort to Reconsider CBP Suspension
While acknowledging the need for solutions to address the border crisis, Denzler stressed the importance of maintaining the flow of commerce.
He highlighted the willingness of the railroad industry to collaborate with CBP and provide additional resources to ensure the safety and security of the crossings.
The business groups propose either the full-time reopening of the rail lines or designated windows for trains to pass through.
Illinois is joined by organizations from Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and 11 other states in urging CBP to reconsider the suspension, emphasizing the economic implications and advocating for a balanced approach that addresses both border security concerns and the uninterrupted movement of goods.
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