Effect on COAC of DHS Memo Firing Advisory Committee Members Unclear
A Department of Homeland Security memo saying that members of DHS advisory committees have had their memberships revoked may apply to the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee, though questions remain.
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COAC is one of 23 DHS advisory committees that fall under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA). These committees work with DHS as well as with other agencies when faced with overlapping issues.
International Trade Today reached out to current and former COAC members, who either didn't respond to a request for comment, declined to comment, or expressed confusion over what the DHS memo means for COAC, a committee made up of members of the trade that advises CBP and works closely with the agency on a variety of customs issues.
Meanwhile, CBP's webpage detailing when and where COAC meetings will occur in 2025 was modified on Jan. 22 to specify that the committee's previously scheduled March 5 meeting will be held in Atlanta.
When asked about DHS' actions, CBP deferred to DHS for comment, and a spokesperson there subsequently confirmed to ITT that the terminations have taken place.
“Effective immediately, the Department of Homeland Security will no longer tolerate any advisory committee which push agendas that attempt to undermine its national security mission, the President’s agenda or Constitutional rights of Americans," a DHS senior official said in an emailed statement.
When asked whether DHS would clarify in the future which specific committees would be affected by this action, a DHS spokesperson said no additional details are available at this time.
One affected committee was the TSA Aviation Security Advisory Committee, of which Airforwarders Association Executive Director Brandon Fried is a member.
Fried confirmed that his group received DHS' memo suspending his membership. He said he had heard the same action applied to COAC as well.
Fried expressed disappointment over DHS' actions: "We believe this decision represents a significant loss for the Department of Homeland Security, its stakeholders, and the new administration. These advisory committees serve as invaluable platforms for open dialogue and the exchange of critical insights between industry experts and government officials. They provide a crucial avenue for stakeholders to offer constructive feedback on existing security programs, ensuring their effectiveness and adaptability in an ever-evolving threat landscape."
He continued, "The Airforwarders Association values its role in collaborating with DHS to enhance transportation security while facilitating the smooth flow of commerce. We look forward to working closely with the Department and the Trump Administration to reinstate these vital advisory committees as soon as possible. We believe that their continued input is essential to maintaining a robust and effective transportation security system."