PEARL Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Joyce, David P. [R-OH-14]
- Committees
- Homeland Security Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 10, 2026
Bottom line
The PEARL Act creates a three-year pilot program for CBP to adopt shelter dogs and train them as support animals for its personnel, potentially enhancing officer well-being and providing homes for shelter dogs.
What it actually does
This bill establishes a three-year pilot program within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to adopt dogs from local animal shelters. These adopted dogs will be trained to serve as support dogs for CBP's existing Support Canine Program, aiming to provide emotional assistance to CBP personnel. The program is mandated to be established within 60 days of the bill's enactment.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this program will improve the mental health and well-being of U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel, who often face high-stress environments. They also highlight the dual benefit of providing loving homes for shelter dogs, reducing euthanasia rates, and offering a cost-effective alternative to purpose-bred service animals.
Opponents contend
Critics might raise concerns about the potential costs associated with adopting, training, housing, and providing veterinary care for these support dogs, especially without a clear funding mechanism. They may also question whether CBP is the most appropriate agency to manage such a program, or if resources could be better allocated to other forms of officer support.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing for quick comprehension of its core provisions.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of CBP Support Dog Pilot Program
This section mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security, through the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to establish a pilot program. The program's purpose is to adopt dogs from local animal shelters and train them to become support dogs for CBP's existing Support Canine Program. This initiative must be launched within 60 days of the bill becoming law.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses the need for enhanced mental health support for CBP officers while simultaneously offering a humane solution for shelter animals. They believe it leverages existing resources (shelters) and builds upon successful models in other agencies.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that while the intent is good, the operational costs and logistical complexities of integrating shelter dogs into a federal support program could be substantial and divert resources from core CBP missions. They may also question the efficacy of a pilot program of this nature.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the potential benefits of improved officer well-being and animal welfare against the administrative and financial costs of establishing and maintaining a new program within a federal law enforcement agency.
Section 2(b)
Duration of Pilot Program
This section specifies that the pilot program established under subsection (a) will have a limited duration. It is set to terminate exactly three years after the date it is officially established. This ensures the program is evaluated after a trial period before any decision is made to make it permanent or expand it.