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Ensuring the Free Flow of Goods and People Across the CanAm Border

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

Goal: MITIGATE THE EFFECTS OF WHTI ON cross border commerce
Background

At the end of 2007, Congress delayed the implementation of WHTI, which would require more stringent identification - specifically, passports or NEXUS cards - for passengers traveling from Canada into the United States, until June 1, 2009 (previously scheduled for January, 2008). During that delay, New York State was given permission by Washington to implement Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs), which would satisfy the ID requirements of WHTI. Both the delay and the EDLs were key components of the Partnership federal advocacy efforts.
Recent Action

The Partnership, individually and through the Great Lakes Chamber Coalition, continue to advocate for a better understanding in Washington of the difference between northern and southern border issues. The Partnership, in a letter of March 27, 2009, invited Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano to Buffalo for such a discussion.
Recent Progress

Subsequently, the Partnership helped DHS staff set up a Buffalo NIagara region meeting with Napolitano's rep, Deputy Secretary Jane Holl Lute, on April 15.
Next Steps On June 1, WHTI went into effect (click here for the new border crossing requirements). The Partnership will monitor the effects of the new requirements and their impact on the regional economy.