Binational rapid response protocol

(a) In general The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Attorney General, shall engage with the Government of Mexico to negotiate and establish a binational rapid response protocol for serious crimes committed against United States citizens in Mexico (referred to in this section as the Protocol). (b) Purpose The Protocol shall aim to ensure timely coordination between United States and Mexican authorities in responding to and investigating serious crimes committed against United States citizens in Mexico. (c) Recommended elements In negotiating the Protocol, the Secretary of State shall seek to include procedures that provide— (1) mechanisms for the prompt notification of relevant United States and Mexican authorities when a serious crime involving a United States citizen occurs; (2) secure and reliable communication channels between designated law enforcement and diplomatic authorities in both countries; (3) procedures to ensure the timely securing of crime scenes and the protection of relevant physical evidence; (4) agreed-upon standards and procedures for preserving and documenting evidence in a manner that supports potential prosecutions in either country's jurisdiction; (5) procedures to facilitate the timely sharing of investigative leads, intelligence, and forensic information between United States and Mexican authorities, consistent with the laws of each country; (6) the designation of appropriate points of contact within the Government of Mexico and procedures to facilitate requests for international extradition and timely coordination for extradition to United States; (7) the designation of appropriate points of contact within relevant United States and Mexican agencies responsible for coordinating responses to incidents covered by the Protocol; (8) the designation of a point of contact within the United States Government responsible for communicating with the victim or the victim’s family and providing timely updates regarding investigative developments and available assistance; (9) procedures for coordination between United States consular officials and Mexican authorities regarding support for victims and their families; and (10) opportunities for joint training, planning, or exercises to ensure effective implementation of the Protocol.