New York – The new rule that anyone driving across the Canadian border must have a passport or passcard will “absolutely” begin in January, government officials said Friday, refuting Senator Charles Schumer’s as we reported here claim the plan will be delayed.
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Lawmakers from states along the northern border have been trying for months to stall or alter the plan to require the more secure identification documents, contending the rule will hurt trade and tourism.
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative was created by Congress to tighten security on both the Canadian and Mexican borders, but many members are now fuming at the notion their constituents will need a $97 dollar passport or a not-yet-developed passcard, expected to cost around $50. Children would be exempt.
Sen. Charles Schumer predicted Thursday the government won’t be able to start in January, but Department of Homeland Security officials insist they will.
“We have a firm deadline and we’re absolutely committed to moving forward with the implementation of western hemisphere travel requirements at our northern border,” said DHS spokesman Russ Knocke. [wstm]