On July 3, 2017, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking [Docket No. USCBP–2017–0017] to extend the geographical limits of the port of entry of Savannah, Georgia. The proposed extension will make the boundaries more easily identifiable to the public and will allow for uniform and continuous service to the extended area of Savannah, Georgia. The proposed change is part of CBP’s continuing program to use its personnel, facilities, and resources more efficiently and to provide better service to carriers, importers, and the general public. For immigration purposes, Savannah, Georgia port of entry is classified as a Class A port in District 26 under 8 C.F.R. 100.4(a). For customs purposes, CBP regulations list designated CBP ports of entry and the limits of each port in 19 C.F.R. 101.3(b)(1).

CBP is proposing to amend 19 C.F.R. 101.3(b)(1) to extend the boundaries of the port of entry of Savannah, Georgia, to include the majority of Chatham County, Georgia, as well as a small portion of Jasper County, South Carolina. The extension of the boundaries will include all of Savannah-Hilton Head Airport, the distribution centers and cold storage agricultural facilities, as well as the site of the proposed replacement Federal Inspection Service facility for arriving international travelers, and any other projected new facilities. However, the proposed change in the boundaries of the port of Savannah, Georgia, will not result in a change in the service that is provided to the public by the port and will not require a change in the staffing or workload at the port.

Comments must be received on or before September 1, 2017.

Source: Baker McKenzie