http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mp ... an/3285311

July 28, 2005, 10:37AM

Local Customs officials lack cultural sensitivity, panel finds
Foreign travelers arriving at IAH complain about delays, treatment
By MATT STILES
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle

A mayoral task force studied treatment of international visitors who arrive at Bush Intercontinental Airport.

• Key findings :

It takes longer for passengers to clear U.S. Customs here than in other places, and agents are more "confrontational." Attitudes toward cultural variables appear "less negative" elsewhere. Use of dogs in close proximity to arriving passengers, a practice that can be stressful and disturbing to some cultures, appears more common here.

• Recommendations:

Streamline procedures to match other major international gateways; improve awareness of cultural sensitivities; add Customs agents, especially for special events; add separate lines for people with business visas or those who are attending conventions.
Source: Mayor's Task Force on International Travelers
Customs officials in Houston are stricter and less culturally sensitive than their counterparts at other major international gateways, to the detriment of the city's image as a medical, convention and education center, a mayoral task force reported Wednesday.

Mayor Bill White appointed the panel after complaints about unfair treatment and unnecessary delays for international travelers â€â€