(CBP)
RFID-Enabled Documents Get Special Lane During Program
U.S. Customs and Border Protection today announced a pilot program at the Ambassador Bridge for travelers with approved Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology-enabled travel documents. The pilot program will start Monday, June 28, and last for 90 days.
CBP will dedicate lane 13, or the “Ready Lane,” for travelers entering the U.S. with a WHTI-compliant, RFID-enabled document. These documents include:
• U.S. Passport card
• Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Identification card
• Trusted Traveler card, such as NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST
• New Permanent Resident card or a new Border Crossing card
“Since the implementation of WHTI in June 2009, travelers have been required to present secure travel documents that denote citizenship and identity when entering the U.S. at land ports,” said Acting Director Field Operations Roderick Blanchard. “The use of RFID technology in these documents enables CBP to further facilitate legitimate travelers as they cross the border into the U.S. This pilot program will help us determine the efficiency and effectiveness of a dedicated RFID lane for those travelers.”
During the pilot program, the “Ready Lane” will be open from 6 to 10 a.m., seven days a week. CBP will monitor the success of the lane and expand the hours of operation as needed to meet the demand for usage.
In order to use this dedicated lane, all adult passengers over the age of 16, must present one of the approved travel documents.
Travelers using the “Ready Lane” are reminded the three simple steps to follow as they approach a U.S. land port of entry with their RFID-enabled travel card:
• Stop at the entry to the inspection lane and wait for a signal to move forward.
• Each passenger removes his or her travel card from its protective sleeve and holds it up, with the flat front face of the card toward a window on the driver’s side. The RFID-enabled cards will be read automatically while the vehicle proceeds to the inspection booth.
• Stop at the inspection booth, and be prepared to present documents for all travelers in the vehicle to the CBP officer.
“The priority lane complements Michigan’s enhanced driver’s license by adding another element of convenience for travelers,” said Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, who secured federal approval of the state’s enhanced license program.
“As the enhanced license becomes even more popular, I applaud U.S. Customs and Border Protection for exploring ways to efficiently accommodate motorists who enjoy its advantages. Our state and federal partnership is responding to the needs of travelers while ensuring the security of Michigan and America.”
Showing posts with label WHTI. Show all posts
Showing posts with label WHTI. Show all posts
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Monday, June 8, 2009
Canada a Rogue State; Yeah, That’s the Ticket
(Tom Ford — Winnipeg Free Press)
Trade experts say a border is “thick” when bureaucracy impedes the movement of goods, services and people. The Canada-U.S. border is now so thick it has love handles.
If our fatso border doesn’t slim down, it could ruin Canada’s and America’s long-term relationship of being good neighbours and each other’s best trading partner.
The border is getting fatter because Canadians and Americans view it differently. Canadians think it’s a line on a map that we should be able to cross quickly. Americans are focused on protectionism and the horrors of terrorism and want a border like China’s Great Wall.
The border’s problems are compounded by the fact that America has a Democratic president and a Congress controlled by Democrats. They are susceptible to the pleadings of unions interested in protectionism. As well, they’re worried Dick Cheney, the former vice-president, and other Republicans will accuse them of being soft on terrorism.
We talk about friendship and free trade, but the Americans are not listening. Janet Napolitano, the American secretary of homeland security, thought, until she was corrected, that some of the 9/11 terrorists came from Canada. At an appearance last week in Toronto, former presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton were unaware Canadians now need a passport or approved document to get into the States. Read the complete editorial here.
Trade experts say a border is “thick” when bureaucracy impedes the movement of goods, services and people. The Canada-U.S. border is now so thick it has love handles.
If our fatso border doesn’t slim down, it could ruin Canada’s and America’s long-term relationship of being good neighbours and each other’s best trading partner.
The border is getting fatter because Canadians and Americans view it differently. Canadians think it’s a line on a map that we should be able to cross quickly. Americans are focused on protectionism and the horrors of terrorism and want a border like China’s Great Wall.
The border’s problems are compounded by the fact that America has a Democratic president and a Congress controlled by Democrats. They are susceptible to the pleadings of unions interested in protectionism. As well, they’re worried Dick Cheney, the former vice-president, and other Republicans will accuse them of being soft on terrorism.
We talk about friendship and free trade, but the Americans are not listening. Janet Napolitano, the American secretary of homeland security, thought, until she was corrected, that some of the 9/11 terrorists came from Canada. At an appearance last week in Toronto, former presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton were unaware Canadians now need a passport or approved document to get into the States. Read the complete editorial here.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
New Requirements on Border ID Stir Worries at Crossings
(Ginger Thompson — New York Times)
After years of delay and hundreds of millions of dollars in preparations, Customs and Border Protection officials said new security measures would go into effect on June 1, requiring Americans entering the country by land or sea to show government-approved identification.
Currently, Americans crossing borders or arriving on cruise ships can prove their nationality by showing thousands of other forms of identification. But after the start of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Americans will be required to present a passport or one of five other secure identification cards.
Coming as the summer vacation season starts, the measure is expected to lengthen lines at least temporarily at border crossings and seaports. But the biggest impact is expected along the nearly 4,000-mile border that the United States shares with Canada, which both countries once boasted was the world’s longest undefended frontier. Read more here.
After years of delay and hundreds of millions of dollars in preparations, Customs and Border Protection officials said new security measures would go into effect on June 1, requiring Americans entering the country by land or sea to show government-approved identification.
Currently, Americans crossing borders or arriving on cruise ships can prove their nationality by showing thousands of other forms of identification. But after the start of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Americans will be required to present a passport or one of five other secure identification cards.
Coming as the summer vacation season starts, the measure is expected to lengthen lines at least temporarily at border crossings and seaports. But the biggest impact is expected along the nearly 4,000-mile border that the United States shares with Canada, which both countries once boasted was the world’s longest undefended frontier. Read more here.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Border Posts Ready With Crossing Scanners
(The Canadian Press)
The scanners and the new computer systems are in place at Vermont’s largest border crossing with Quebec and people in both the United States and Canada are starting to get identification cards that makes it easier for them to cross the border.
There are still a few loose ends, but officials with U.S. Customs and Border Protection say they will be ready on June 1, the day the United States fully implements the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.
And people in both countries know the pre-9/11 days are gone when they could simply tell a border agent who they were and go from one country to another. Most people crossing the border now already have all the required documents, officials said.
The travel initiative requires everyone entering the U.S. to have specialized documents, like passports or special driver’s licenses, that prove who they are and where they’re from. Read more here.
Related: U.S. beefs up security along Canadian border (LAT)
The scanners and the new computer systems are in place at Vermont’s largest border crossing with Quebec and people in both the United States and Canada are starting to get identification cards that makes it easier for them to cross the border.
There are still a few loose ends, but officials with U.S. Customs and Border Protection say they will be ready on June 1, the day the United States fully implements the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.
And people in both countries know the pre-9/11 days are gone when they could simply tell a border agent who they were and go from one country to another. Most people crossing the border now already have all the required documents, officials said.
The travel initiative requires everyone entering the U.S. to have specialized documents, like passports or special driver’s licenses, that prove who they are and where they’re from. Read more here.
Related: U.S. beefs up security along Canadian border (LAT)
Friday, April 24, 2009
US Tightens Customs Procedures
(Mike Young — IFW Net)
Trade with the US will be subject to more stringent Customs procedures for e-manifests from 25 April.
US Customs and Border Protection said individuals transporting goods across land and sea borders under an e-manifest must comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative’s rules on identification documents from 26 April.
The agency will issue a warning message to shippers which fail to comply with the new regulations.
From 1 June the warning message will be replaced by a rejection of the e-manifest if it is submitted without the correct documentation, such as a US passport or passport card.
Previously US borders could be cleared using a range of documents including birth certificates and driving licenses. Read more here (subscription)
Trade with the US will be subject to more stringent Customs procedures for e-manifests from 25 April.
US Customs and Border Protection said individuals transporting goods across land and sea borders under an e-manifest must comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative’s rules on identification documents from 26 April.
The agency will issue a warning message to shippers which fail to comply with the new regulations.
From 1 June the warning message will be replaced by a rejection of the e-manifest if it is submitted without the correct documentation, such as a US passport or passport card.
Previously US borders could be cleared using a range of documents including birth certificates and driving licenses. Read more here (subscription)
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) Reminder
(U.S. CBP — Pembina)
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) documentary requirements for land and sea travel will go into effect on June 1, 2009. U.S., Canadian, and Bermudan citizens that
were previously exempt document requirements will be required to present a WHTI-compliant document for entry into the United States at land and sea ports of entry beginning June 1.
WHTI codes will be applied to ACE E-Manifests starting April 2009, with a transition period, until compliance is enforced on June 1, 2009. Effective June 1, 2009, all E-Manifests filed that are non-WHTI compliant will be rejected by ACE until WHTI compliance is obtained. As a reminder, WHTI-compliant documents include the following:
• U.S., Canadian or Bermudan passports;
• U.S. Passport Card;
• Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (when and where available);
• Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST);
• Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Cards;
• Military identification cards (for members of the U.S. armed forces on official orders);
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (for U.S. citizens on official maritime business);
As specified in the WHTI land and sea final rule, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 16, and those under age 19 traveling in a designated group, may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card.
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) documentary requirements for land and sea travel will go into effect on June 1, 2009. U.S., Canadian, and Bermudan citizens that
were previously exempt document requirements will be required to present a WHTI-compliant document for entry into the United States at land and sea ports of entry beginning June 1.
WHTI codes will be applied to ACE E-Manifests starting April 2009, with a transition period, until compliance is enforced on June 1, 2009. Effective June 1, 2009, all E-Manifests filed that are non-WHTI compliant will be rejected by ACE until WHTI compliance is obtained. As a reminder, WHTI-compliant documents include the following:
• U.S., Canadian or Bermudan passports;
• U.S. Passport Card;
• Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (when and where available);
• Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST);
• Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Cards;
• Military identification cards (for members of the U.S. armed forces on official orders);
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Document (for U.S. citizens on official maritime business);
As specified in the WHTI land and sea final rule, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 16, and those under age 19 traveling in a designated group, may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Obama’s Message: Glory Days of Open Border Are Gone
(Globe & Mail – John Ibbitson)
Janet Napolitano has a message for Canadians: It’s a border. Get used to it.
The new Homeland Security Secretary had only stern comments yesterday about the state and future of the Canada-U.S. border, at a symposium hosted by the Brookings Institution.
Her goal seemed to be to throw a bucket of reality on anyone who hoped that the arrival of Barack Obama’s new administration would herald a loosening of new restrictions on cross-border traffic. The days when Canadians and Americans moved back and forth across the border – “it’s as though there’s not a border at all,” as she put it – are over. “It’s a real border, and we need to address it as a real border,” Ms. Napolitano said, calling on both Americans and Canadians to accept this “change of culture.”
That culture changes most emphatically June 1, when the United States will require anyone entering from Canada to produce a passport or its equivalent.
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, whose district encompasses Rochester, Buffalo and Niagara Falls, believes she knows what will happen that day. “There will be pure chaos,” she predicted. Lines will lengthen, people will be denied entry, tourism and business will suffer. And with the addition of the Olympics it’s going to be even more so.” […]
Ms. Napolitano confessed that, having lived most of her life in either New Mexico, where she was raised, or Arizona, where she was governor, “I’ve never actually spent much time on the Canadian border,” though she plans to visit it later this spring and this summer. To educate herself, she commissioned a study of the border, chastising Canadian journalists who speculated that this was an ominous sign. Read more here.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Bid to Delay Border Rules Dropped
(Embassy – Lee Bethiaume)
The government has largely given up on trying to secure another delay of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and is instead counting on the Obama administration showing flexibility in implementation of the new rules.
This has prompted concern from opposition critics and business groups, who worry the new regulations will exacerbate the effects of the current economic recession, and create problems during the Vancouver Olympics.
In an interview Monday, Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan said the issue of pushing for a delay became “moot” after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said the U.S. is WHTI-ready. “That decision’s done,” Mr. Van Loan said. “So there is no mechanism for further extensions. We are thus working with them on implementation.” Read more here.
The government has largely given up on trying to secure another delay of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and is instead counting on the Obama administration showing flexibility in implementation of the new rules.
This has prompted concern from opposition critics and business groups, who worry the new regulations will exacerbate the effects of the current economic recession, and create problems during the Vancouver Olympics.
In an interview Monday, Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan said the issue of pushing for a delay became “moot” after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said the U.S. is WHTI-ready. “That decision’s done,” Mr. Van Loan said. “So there is no mechanism for further extensions. We are thus working with them on implementation.” Read more here.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Canada Backpedals on Sharing Personal Database With U.S.
(The Canadian Press)
Ottawa has quietly dropped plans to let the United States house a database of personal information about Canadians who hold special driver’s licences aimed at better securing the border.
The move follows vocal criticism from federal and provincial privacy commissioners, who warned earlier this year the scheme could open the door to abuse of the sensitive data.
However, the office of federal Privacy Commissioner Jennifer Stoddart is still wary of the plan to share information on so-called enhanced driver’s licences with the United States, and stresses the passport is still the ideal travel document for Canadians.
“All in all, we are pleased to see that they listened to some of our recommendations, but we remain hopeful that they’ll heed to many of our other concerns,” said Anne-Marie Hayden, a spokeswoman for Stoddart.
As of next June under Washington’s Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all people entering the U.S. must have a passport or other secure documentation confirming citizenship and identity. Read more here.
Ottawa has quietly dropped plans to let the United States house a database of personal information about Canadians who hold special driver’s licences aimed at better securing the border.
The move follows vocal criticism from federal and provincial privacy commissioners, who warned earlier this year the scheme could open the door to abuse of the sensitive data.
However, the office of federal Privacy Commissioner Jennifer Stoddart is still wary of the plan to share information on so-called enhanced driver’s licences with the United States, and stresses the passport is still the ideal travel document for Canadians.
“All in all, we are pleased to see that they listened to some of our recommendations, but we remain hopeful that they’ll heed to many of our other concerns,” said Anne-Marie Hayden, a spokeswoman for Stoddart.
As of next June under Washington’s Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all people entering the U.S. must have a passport or other secure documentation confirming citizenship and identity. Read more here.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Enhanced Driver’s Licence or National Identity Card?
(Andrew Clement & Colin Bennett — Toronto Star)
In the name of thrift and convenience, Canadian governments are opening the door to a privacy-threatening ID scheme imposed by the United States in the misguided pursuit of “secure” borders. Currently, the Ontario government is pushing through legislation – Bill 85, the Photo Card Act – that would “enhance” the provincial driver’s licence to meet U.S. demands.
As part of the Bush administration’s war on terror, Canadians entering the U.S. will soon need to show a passport or equivalent document in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. The U.S. has already put this requirement into effect for air travel and in June 2009 it will cover all land and water crossings.
In anticipation of this and to facilitate “the efficient and secure flow of cross-border travel and commerce,” several Canadian provinces are instituting enhanced driver’s licences (EDL). Enhancing a licence in accordance with standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security involves including a citizenship indicator, an optical character recognition zone and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip.
With these features, an EDL can serve as an alternative to a Canadian passport at an American border. Promoted as cheaper and more convenient than a passport, such a licence initially appear to be a good deal. A closer examination reveals several flaws with this approach.
One of the most serious problems with EDLs is the requirement to adopt a particularly insecure form of chip – the EPC Gen 2. Over stiff opposition from the “smart card” industry as well as civil liberties organizations, Homeland Security has insisted on a type of chip that is notoriously privacy-invasive in its potential. The chip on the card will hold a unique personal identification number that anyone in the vicinity (at least 10 metres) can read with commercially available equipment and link to any other information the person may have about the card holder.
It is ironic that while some jurisdictions require the disabling of similar RFIDs in consumer items at point of purchase, there appears to be no effective way for individuals to do likewise with a card many will carry all the time. There has been no visible progress in developing less invasive features, such as a switch that would allow cardholders to turn the chip off until they want it read, or the option to request an EDL without a chip and only the optical character zone for machine reading. Read the rest here.
In the name of thrift and convenience, Canadian governments are opening the door to a privacy-threatening ID scheme imposed by the United States in the misguided pursuit of “secure” borders. Currently, the Ontario government is pushing through legislation – Bill 85, the Photo Card Act – that would “enhance” the provincial driver’s licence to meet U.S. demands.
As part of the Bush administration’s war on terror, Canadians entering the U.S. will soon need to show a passport or equivalent document in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. The U.S. has already put this requirement into effect for air travel and in June 2009 it will cover all land and water crossings.
In anticipation of this and to facilitate “the efficient and secure flow of cross-border travel and commerce,” several Canadian provinces are instituting enhanced driver’s licences (EDL). Enhancing a licence in accordance with standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security involves including a citizenship indicator, an optical character recognition zone and a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip.
With these features, an EDL can serve as an alternative to a Canadian passport at an American border. Promoted as cheaper and more convenient than a passport, such a licence initially appear to be a good deal. A closer examination reveals several flaws with this approach.
One of the most serious problems with EDLs is the requirement to adopt a particularly insecure form of chip – the EPC Gen 2. Over stiff opposition from the “smart card” industry as well as civil liberties organizations, Homeland Security has insisted on a type of chip that is notoriously privacy-invasive in its potential. The chip on the card will hold a unique personal identification number that anyone in the vicinity (at least 10 metres) can read with commercially available equipment and link to any other information the person may have about the card holder.
It is ironic that while some jurisdictions require the disabling of similar RFIDs in consumer items at point of purchase, there appears to be no effective way for individuals to do likewise with a card many will carry all the time. There has been no visible progress in developing less invasive features, such as a switch that would allow cardholders to turn the chip off until they want it read, or the option to request an EDL without a chip and only the optical character zone for machine reading. Read the rest here.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
US Customs and Border Protection Launches WHTI Advertising Campaign in Canada
(Adam Ledlow — Truck News)
The US Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection is launching a television and print advertising campaign in Canada today to remind the Canadian public about travel document requirements for entry into the US that go into effect on June 1.
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative establishes document requirements for travellers entering the US who were previously exempt, including citizens of the US, Canada, and Bermuda. This phase of CBP’s WHTI outreach efforts will include French and English-language advertising on Canadian television and in newspapers and magazines; advertising on the Web; public service announcements; the launch of new Web sites (www.KnowYourBorder.gov and www.VersLesUsa.gov) and interactive widget; as well as distribution of related information through the media and various travel stakeholders.
“We take seriously the obligation to inform travellers on both sides of the border of the change in procedures,” stated CBP Commissioner W. Ralph Basham. “This multi-faceted campaign is designed to reach frequent as well as infrequent border crossers. A well-informed traveller plays an active role in contributing to the security as well as the efficiency of our shared borders.”
WHTI was implemented for air travellers in January 2007. On June 1, travellers will need to present a valid, acceptable document that denotes both identity and citizenship when entering the US by land or sea. Most travellers will be able to select from one of several different document options, based upon their individual travel needs. Read more.
The US Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection is launching a television and print advertising campaign in Canada today to remind the Canadian public about travel document requirements for entry into the US that go into effect on June 1.
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative establishes document requirements for travellers entering the US who were previously exempt, including citizens of the US, Canada, and Bermuda. This phase of CBP’s WHTI outreach efforts will include French and English-language advertising on Canadian television and in newspapers and magazines; advertising on the Web; public service announcements; the launch of new Web sites (www.KnowYourBorder.gov and www.VersLesUsa.gov) and interactive widget; as well as distribution of related information through the media and various travel stakeholders.
“We take seriously the obligation to inform travellers on both sides of the border of the change in procedures,” stated CBP Commissioner W. Ralph Basham. “This multi-faceted campaign is designed to reach frequent as well as infrequent border crossers. A well-informed traveller plays an active role in contributing to the security as well as the efficiency of our shared borders.”
WHTI was implemented for air travellers in January 2007. On June 1, travellers will need to present a valid, acceptable document that denotes both identity and citizenship when entering the US by land or sea. Most travellers will be able to select from one of several different document options, based upon their individual travel needs. Read more.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Canadian Input for New U.S. Border Plan
(Embassy Magazine)
Jerry Grafstein and Rob Merrifield have been working with Louise Slaughter to devise a strategy for the next U.S. administration.
Democrats and Republicans are working together to draw up a new Canada-U.S. border management plan for the incoming American administration, and have asked Canadian politicians for their input after years of poor management following 9/11.
Work on a new border plan has begun at the request of the speaker of the U.S. Congress, California Democrat Nancy Pelosi.
The Canadian point men on the project are the co-chairs of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group: Conservative MP Rob Merrifield and Liberal Senator Jerry Grafstein.
The pair have spent much of the summer south of the border, attending the various legislative councils held each summer across the United States, in addition to the Democratic and Republican national conventions.
…At the request of his American allies, Mr. Grafstein has drawn up a series of preliminary recommendations about what can be done to achieve a better-managed border. A letter, containing eight points, was prepared at the request of Republican Senator and former governor of Ohio George Voinovich on July 31 and later passed to Ms. Slaughter.
Mr. Grafstein’s recommendations touch on points that would ease the flow of both people and goods across the border, and apply to air travel, trucking regulations and infrastructure.
To address trucking snags, he recommends lower inspection rates for members of trusted-shipper programs, such as the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) system, and that an agreement be put in place so “that rail and truck cargo inspected, cleared and secured at a Canadian port should not be subject to further inspections at the U.S. border.”
On the air travel side, the senator recommends that the United States accept Canadian baggage screening as equivalent to U.S. standards so Canadian baggage being transferred in the U.S. does not have to be re-screened.
In addition, Mr. Grafstein requests U.S. authorities address the problem of understaffing at border crossings, with the assertion that major border crossings are lacking as much as 40 per cent of their required American staff.
He also asks for “continued U.S. priority attention” to the Detroit River International Crossing, where the Ambassador Bridge now connects Detroit, Michigan with Windsor, Ontario.
This bridge currently carries some 25 per cent of total Canadian-American trade. To cope with congestion, Mr. Grafstein encourages his American counterparts to proceed with the construction of a second bridge or tunnel.
Finally, Mr. Grafstein asks for continued co-operation in the run up to the June 1, 2009 full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which will require Canadian and U.S. citizens to use passports when crossing land and sea borders.
The American public, he writes, must be made aware of the need for passports so as to stop any further drop in tourist traffic, which “which has substantially reduced in the last five years because of delays and additional documentation. Read the complete article.
Jerry Grafstein and Rob Merrifield have been working with Louise Slaughter to devise a strategy for the next U.S. administration.
Democrats and Republicans are working together to draw up a new Canada-U.S. border management plan for the incoming American administration, and have asked Canadian politicians for their input after years of poor management following 9/11.
Work on a new border plan has begun at the request of the speaker of the U.S. Congress, California Democrat Nancy Pelosi.
The Canadian point men on the project are the co-chairs of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group: Conservative MP Rob Merrifield and Liberal Senator Jerry Grafstein.
The pair have spent much of the summer south of the border, attending the various legislative councils held each summer across the United States, in addition to the Democratic and Republican national conventions.
…At the request of his American allies, Mr. Grafstein has drawn up a series of preliminary recommendations about what can be done to achieve a better-managed border. A letter, containing eight points, was prepared at the request of Republican Senator and former governor of Ohio George Voinovich on July 31 and later passed to Ms. Slaughter.
Mr. Grafstein’s recommendations touch on points that would ease the flow of both people and goods across the border, and apply to air travel, trucking regulations and infrastructure.
To address trucking snags, he recommends lower inspection rates for members of trusted-shipper programs, such as the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) system, and that an agreement be put in place so “that rail and truck cargo inspected, cleared and secured at a Canadian port should not be subject to further inspections at the U.S. border.”
On the air travel side, the senator recommends that the United States accept Canadian baggage screening as equivalent to U.S. standards so Canadian baggage being transferred in the U.S. does not have to be re-screened.
In addition, Mr. Grafstein requests U.S. authorities address the problem of understaffing at border crossings, with the assertion that major border crossings are lacking as much as 40 per cent of their required American staff.
He also asks for “continued U.S. priority attention” to the Detroit River International Crossing, where the Ambassador Bridge now connects Detroit, Michigan with Windsor, Ontario.
This bridge currently carries some 25 per cent of total Canadian-American trade. To cope with congestion, Mr. Grafstein encourages his American counterparts to proceed with the construction of a second bridge or tunnel.
Finally, Mr. Grafstein asks for continued co-operation in the run up to the June 1, 2009 full implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which will require Canadian and U.S. citizens to use passports when crossing land and sea borders.
The American public, he writes, must be made aware of the need for passports so as to stop any further drop in tourist traffic, which “which has substantially reduced in the last five years because of delays and additional documentation. Read the complete article.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
CBP Modernizing Land Ports of Entry
(CBP)
RFID technology to help speed, streamline border crossing
U.S. Customs and Border Protection [Monday] announced plans for construction work to improve 39 major entry points along the U.S borders with Canada and Mexico over the coming months.
The construction, which entails deployment of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to 354 vehicle lanes, will help speed travel and further enhance border security.
Use of RFID will enable swifter processing at border crossings for travelers using new state-of-the-art travel documents. These documents include the passport card – a wallet-sized, cost-effective alternative to the traditional passport specifically designed for cross-border land and sea travel – and enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) being produced by several states.
Washington State began producing an EDL in February and currently has issued over 17,000.
The State Department currently has received over 300,000 passport card applications and will be in full production in July. In addition, the State Department will be incorporating RFID technology into the next generation Border Crossing Cards. These new cards, which the State Department will begin issuing later this year, will further enhance and streamline border crossing for BCC-holders.
“We want to alert travelers to the potential of increased wait times at some high-volume border crossings this summer,” said CBP’s Executive Director for Admissibility and Passenger Programs Paul Morris. “Deploying RFID readers will be a tremendous step in helping reduce congestion and long lines in the future. We also want to thank travelers for their patience during this construction phase and to encourage them to obtain one of the new RFID-enabled documents.”
These documents are the result of a new requirement, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a Congressional mandate passed in 2004. The requirement went into effect for air travel in January 2007. Full implementation of WHTI for land and sea travel will go into effect June 1, 2009. To help mitigate impact, CBP is taking a phased approach with separate construction and installation phases, which will be complete prior to June 2009. Where possible, construction is taking place during non-peak hours.
CBP is conducting numerous press events and stakeholder briefings throughout the border communities to answer questions about the technology deployment and provide additional information about WHTI and the variety of document options available to travelers. As travelers gear up for the busy summer travel season, CBP also offers tips to help expedite processing at the port of entry by having their documents ready upon arrival at the primary inspection booth and to declare all purchases to the CBP officer, including fruits, vegetables and animal products. For questions regarding admissible or prohibited products, please see the “Know Before You Go” website.
The construction is occurring in Blaine, Wash. and Nogales, Ariz. in June, and in the following locations throughout summer and fall (listed in no particular order): Buffalo, Champlain, Massena and Alexandria Bay, N.Y.; Detroit, Port Huron and Sault St. Marie, Mich.; El Paso, Laredo, Brownsville, Hidalgo, Rio Grande City, Fabens, Progreso, Del Rio, Roma, Presidio and Eagle Pass, Texas; Derby Line, Highgate Springs and Alburg, Vt.; Sweetgrass, Mont.; Calais, Houlton and Madawaska, Maine; International Falls, Minn.; Sumas Point Roberts and Lynden, Wash.; Pembina, N.D.; San Ysidro, Andrade, Tecate, Otay Mesa and Calexico, Calif.; San Luis, Douglas and Lukeville, Ariz.; and Columbus, N.M.
A sustained, large-scale ad campaign will also be launched later this year to advise national audiences in the United States and Canada about the new document requirement.
RFID technology to help speed, streamline border crossing
U.S. Customs and Border Protection [Monday] announced plans for construction work to improve 39 major entry points along the U.S borders with Canada and Mexico over the coming months.
The construction, which entails deployment of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to 354 vehicle lanes, will help speed travel and further enhance border security.
Use of RFID will enable swifter processing at border crossings for travelers using new state-of-the-art travel documents. These documents include the passport card – a wallet-sized, cost-effective alternative to the traditional passport specifically designed for cross-border land and sea travel – and enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) being produced by several states.
Washington State began producing an EDL in February and currently has issued over 17,000.
The State Department currently has received over 300,000 passport card applications and will be in full production in July. In addition, the State Department will be incorporating RFID technology into the next generation Border Crossing Cards. These new cards, which the State Department will begin issuing later this year, will further enhance and streamline border crossing for BCC-holders.
“We want to alert travelers to the potential of increased wait times at some high-volume border crossings this summer,” said CBP’s Executive Director for Admissibility and Passenger Programs Paul Morris. “Deploying RFID readers will be a tremendous step in helping reduce congestion and long lines in the future. We also want to thank travelers for their patience during this construction phase and to encourage them to obtain one of the new RFID-enabled documents.”
These documents are the result of a new requirement, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a Congressional mandate passed in 2004. The requirement went into effect for air travel in January 2007. Full implementation of WHTI for land and sea travel will go into effect June 1, 2009. To help mitigate impact, CBP is taking a phased approach with separate construction and installation phases, which will be complete prior to June 2009. Where possible, construction is taking place during non-peak hours.
CBP is conducting numerous press events and stakeholder briefings throughout the border communities to answer questions about the technology deployment and provide additional information about WHTI and the variety of document options available to travelers. As travelers gear up for the busy summer travel season, CBP also offers tips to help expedite processing at the port of entry by having their documents ready upon arrival at the primary inspection booth and to declare all purchases to the CBP officer, including fruits, vegetables and animal products. For questions regarding admissible or prohibited products, please see the “Know Before You Go” website.
The construction is occurring in Blaine, Wash. and Nogales, Ariz. in June, and in the following locations throughout summer and fall (listed in no particular order): Buffalo, Champlain, Massena and Alexandria Bay, N.Y.; Detroit, Port Huron and Sault St. Marie, Mich.; El Paso, Laredo, Brownsville, Hidalgo, Rio Grande City, Fabens, Progreso, Del Rio, Roma, Presidio and Eagle Pass, Texas; Derby Line, Highgate Springs and Alburg, Vt.; Sweetgrass, Mont.; Calais, Houlton and Madawaska, Maine; International Falls, Minn.; Sumas Point Roberts and Lynden, Wash.; Pembina, N.D.; San Ysidro, Andrade, Tecate, Otay Mesa and Calexico, Calif.; San Luis, Douglas and Lukeville, Ariz.; and Columbus, N.M.
A sustained, large-scale ad campaign will also be launched later this year to advise national audiences in the United States and Canada about the new document requirement.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
U.S. Legislators Renew Push to Delay Passports at Canadian Border
American legislators are renewing their push to delay requiring passports at the Canada-U.S. border until June 2009 by slipping the measure into a critical spending bill.
But the Homeland Security Department says it's determined to move forward with the new security requirement next summer as planned, regardless of how Congress votes. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the $516-billion measure funding 14 cabinet agencies and troops in Afghanistan, setting the stage for a year-end budget deal with the White House.
President George W. Bush has signaled he'll ultimately sign the measure – assuming up to $40 billion more is provided by the Senate for the Iraq war – despite opposition from Republican conservatives. In an unusual two-step, legislators first voted 253-154 to approve the omnibus spending bill; they then voted 206-201 to add $31 billion for troops in Afghanistan to the measure. The combined $516-billion spending package is set for Senate debate on Tuesday. Canada has long supported a delay in the passport requirement to ensure the security system is properly in place, avoiding nightmarish traffic lineups and long wait times for passports.
The extra time was written into the House bill by New York Democrat Louise Slaughter. She included a provision for withholding $75 million to implement the plan until officials report on the status of new identification cards and high-technology driver's licenses that are being developed as alternatives to passports.
“The traffic across our northern border is critical to our economy and we must never sacrifice our relationship with Canada with an ill-conceived attempt to increase border security,” said Slaughter. “Economic security and physical security are not mutually exclusive. We can, and must, have both.”
But Homeland Security spokesman Russ Knocke said he doesn't believe the stalling measure will impede plans to implement the so-called Western Hemisphere and Travel Initiative at land and sea crossing starting next summer. “A delay in WHTI implementation would create the very type of chaos at the border that Congress has repeatedly urged our department to avoid,” Knocke said.
Canadian Embassy officials called the latest move on passports “a very positive step.” Ambassador Michael Wilson has been lobbying for more time for more than a year. “On the present timetable, Canadians and Americans do not have time to get the documents they will need,” Wilson said in an editorial published last week in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
“Neither country can afford the kind of backlog that both passport agencies experienced last winter when the new ... requirements were implemented for air travellers.Many more travellers cross by land and there needs to be a realistic and transparent plan to ensure that legitimate tourism and trade can continue."
Wait times for passports were up to 12 weeks, from four to six weeks, in the United States before air passengers were required to use the documents in January.
The land and sea portion of the rule has already been delayed once to give U.S. officials more time to develop a passcard dubbed “passport lite” that will be cheaper to get. Several states and some provinces are interested in developing enhanced driver's licences that will contain proof of citizenship like passports. Last week, Homeland Secretary Michael Chertoff called the high-technology licences a “win-win for security and convenience.”
Starting Jan. 31, the United States will require all Canadians to provide some proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate. Adults will also need a government-issued photo ID. Customs agents will no longer be allowed to simply ask people where they were born.
But the Homeland Security Department says it's determined to move forward with the new security requirement next summer as planned, regardless of how Congress votes. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the $516-billion measure funding 14 cabinet agencies and troops in Afghanistan, setting the stage for a year-end budget deal with the White House.
President George W. Bush has signaled he'll ultimately sign the measure – assuming up to $40 billion more is provided by the Senate for the Iraq war – despite opposition from Republican conservatives. In an unusual two-step, legislators first voted 253-154 to approve the omnibus spending bill; they then voted 206-201 to add $31 billion for troops in Afghanistan to the measure. The combined $516-billion spending package is set for Senate debate on Tuesday. Canada has long supported a delay in the passport requirement to ensure the security system is properly in place, avoiding nightmarish traffic lineups and long wait times for passports.
The extra time was written into the House bill by New York Democrat Louise Slaughter. She included a provision for withholding $75 million to implement the plan until officials report on the status of new identification cards and high-technology driver's licenses that are being developed as alternatives to passports.
“The traffic across our northern border is critical to our economy and we must never sacrifice our relationship with Canada with an ill-conceived attempt to increase border security,” said Slaughter. “Economic security and physical security are not mutually exclusive. We can, and must, have both.”
But Homeland Security spokesman Russ Knocke said he doesn't believe the stalling measure will impede plans to implement the so-called Western Hemisphere and Travel Initiative at land and sea crossing starting next summer. “A delay in WHTI implementation would create the very type of chaos at the border that Congress has repeatedly urged our department to avoid,” Knocke said.
Canadian Embassy officials called the latest move on passports “a very positive step.” Ambassador Michael Wilson has been lobbying for more time for more than a year. “On the present timetable, Canadians and Americans do not have time to get the documents they will need,” Wilson said in an editorial published last week in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
“Neither country can afford the kind of backlog that both passport agencies experienced last winter when the new ... requirements were implemented for air travellers.Many more travellers cross by land and there needs to be a realistic and transparent plan to ensure that legitimate tourism and trade can continue."
Wait times for passports were up to 12 weeks, from four to six weeks, in the United States before air passengers were required to use the documents in January.
The land and sea portion of the rule has already been delayed once to give U.S. officials more time to develop a passcard dubbed “passport lite” that will be cheaper to get. Several states and some provinces are interested in developing enhanced driver's licences that will contain proof of citizenship like passports. Last week, Homeland Secretary Michael Chertoff called the high-technology licences a “win-win for security and convenience.”
Starting Jan. 31, the United States will require all Canadians to provide some proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate. Adults will also need a government-issued photo ID. Customs agents will no longer be allowed to simply ask people where they were born.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
New Passport Guarantor Policy in Effect
(Passport Canada)
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs today announced a new guarantor policy for Canadian passports. This new policy allows most Canadian adult passport holders residing in Canada or the U.S. to act as guarantors for passport applications. Today’s announcement is the next step in the continued efforts by Canada’s New Government to improve passport services.
“Canada’s New Government is taking positive action to improve passport services for Canadians. And unlike the previous government, we are delivering results. In only a few months, we have increased Passport Canada’s capacity by 40%, we have launched the simplified passport renewal process and we are announcing today the new guarantor policy,” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Under the new policy effective today, an eligible guarantor must:– Be a Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older; – Hold a five-year Canadian passport that is valid or has been expired for no more than one year; – Have been 16 years of age or older when they applied for their own passport; and – Have known the applicant personally for at least two years.
Demand for Canadian passports has more than doubled over less than a decade. In 1999-2000, Passport Canada issued 1.7 million passports. In 2006-2007, it issued 3.6 million passports and this fiscal year, the figure is expected to reach more than four million.
Now, any family member as well as any individual residing at the applicant’s address may act as guarantor, provided he or she meets the requirements noted above. To simplify the verification of guarantor eligibility, Passport Canada will use its own database, thereby increasing the security and efficiency of the process.
For more information on travel documentation required for travel to the United States and upcoming changes due to the U.S. Western Hemispheric Travel Initiative, please visit the CBSA website.
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs today announced a new guarantor policy for Canadian passports. This new policy allows most Canadian adult passport holders residing in Canada or the U.S. to act as guarantors for passport applications. Today’s announcement is the next step in the continued efforts by Canada’s New Government to improve passport services.
“Canada’s New Government is taking positive action to improve passport services for Canadians. And unlike the previous government, we are delivering results. In only a few months, we have increased Passport Canada’s capacity by 40%, we have launched the simplified passport renewal process and we are announcing today the new guarantor policy,” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Under the new policy effective today, an eligible guarantor must:– Be a Canadian citizen 18 years of age or older; – Hold a five-year Canadian passport that is valid or has been expired for no more than one year; – Have been 16 years of age or older when they applied for their own passport; and – Have known the applicant personally for at least two years.
Demand for Canadian passports has more than doubled over less than a decade. In 1999-2000, Passport Canada issued 1.7 million passports. In 2006-2007, it issued 3.6 million passports and this fiscal year, the figure is expected to reach more than four million.
Now, any family member as well as any individual residing at the applicant’s address may act as guarantor, provided he or she meets the requirements noted above. To simplify the verification of guarantor eligibility, Passport Canada will use its own database, thereby increasing the security and efficiency of the process.
For more information on travel documentation required for travel to the United States and upcoming changes due to the U.S. Western Hemispheric Travel Initiative, please visit the CBSA website.
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