FR 2025-04731

General Summary

The "Voluntary Self-Reported Exit (VSRE) Pilot" is an initiative by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) aimed at testing new technology to track the departure of non-U.S. citizens from the United States. By utilizing a mobile application, participants will be able to submit facial images and other relevant information to confirm their exit. This pilot program, set to start on March 19, 2025, hopes to improve the accuracy of entry-exit records through advanced techniques like facial recognition and geolocation. The pilot will run for two years, and participation is entirely voluntary, specifically targeting those required to fill out an I-94 form upon entering the United States.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One issue is the absence of detail regarding the financial implications of this pilot. Without information on the estimated cost, it becomes challenging to evaluate if the expenditure aligns with government efficiency goals or if there might be potential waste. Furthermore, the document does not mention any vendors or contractors involved, which could obscure transparency and lead to speculation on the possibility of favoritism in the selection of technology providers.

The technical language used when explaining the geolocation and liveness detection features might pose an understanding barrier for individuals who are not familiar with such technologies. This could limit stakeholder engagement and public feedback on the pilot.

Additionally, the protocol to handle app malfunctions is somewhat underdeveloped, making it unclear what steps travelers should take if errors occur. This gap in information may lead to confusion or distrust among users.

There is also a lack of defined metrics for evaluating the success of the pilot. Without clear criteria, the effectiveness of the pilot may be difficult to ascertain, which could influence future decision-making processes about the program’s expansion or modification.

Impact on the Public

The broader public might see mixed results from this pilot. On one side, the initiative could streamline and secure border crossing procedures, potentially minimizing fraud and aiding in identifying security threats. On the other hand, those who are wary of digital surveillance and data privacy might view the collection of biometric information as intrusive or excessive.

For non-U.S. citizens subject to the I-94 requirement, this pilot potentially offers a more convenient way to report their departure, specifically addressing the cumbersome nature of current reporting methods at land borders. However, the voluntary nature and technical barriers could limit participation and, thus, the attainment of comprehensive exit data.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Non-U.S. Citizens: Individuals using the I-94 process could benefit from a streamlined, convenient way to report their exit, facilitating compliance and reducing confusion about their immigration status. However, they might be concerned about privacy and the security of their personal data.

CBP and DHS: The pilot may serve as a valuable tool for these agencies to improve operational efficiency and enhance national security. Successfully capturing biometric and geolocation data more accurately is aligned with their goal of a comprehensive entry-exit system.

Technology Providers: Companies developing and providing this technology stand to benefit from governmental contracts and may influence future standard practices in border management.

Privacy Advocates: These groups may view this initiative with skepticism, concerned about the implications for personal privacy and data security. Ensuring proper use and protection of collected data will likely be a point of contention.

In conclusion, the VSRE Pilot represents a significant step towards modernizing U.S. border management systems. However, clear communication about costs, vendor selection, technical procedures, and privacy safeguards is essential to achieving stakeholder buy-in and public confidence.