7.21.21 Advocacy Alert: US Extends Canadian Border Closure to August 21
Blog Categories
July 21, 2021
Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced it was extending its ban on non-essential land entry by Canadian travelers through August 21.
The move comes on the heels of Canada’s decision Monday to reopen its land border to vaccinated, non-essential American travelers on August 9.
Canada’s decision and calls from our region’s federal representatives have not changed the U.S. government’s thinking. When asked Monday if the U.S. would follow Canada’s lead, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said the Biden Administration is “continuing to review our travel restrictions. Any decisions about resuming travel will be guided by our public health and medical experts. … I wouldn’t look at it through a reciprocal intention.”
The BNP continues to urge the Biden Administration to welcome Canadian travelers. We called for the border to open in April. In May, the BNP teamed up with Ontario’s Greater Niagara and Hamilton Chambers of Commerce to explain the benefits reopening the border would have for our binational economy. We specifically urged both nations to mutually agree upon a binational border opening implementation plan. Both nations' failure to heed this advice has led to an unbalanced border policy.
The BNP remains committed to reducing unnecessary barriers to crossing the border, and will continue to push the Biden Administration to allow, at a minimum, reciprocal access for non-essential Canadian travelers.
Related Posts
Members-Only Webisode: 2021 CEOs Speak
Get the results of the 2021 CEOs Speak Survey in this members-only video.
BNP Advocacy Alert – NYS Budget Update
Governor Cuomo and members of the State Legislature have agreed on a new state budget for FY 2022.
BNP Advocacy Insider – April 2021
The APril 2021 Advocacy Insider is a roundup of important issues we are monitoring that could you and your business.
Biden Releases Infrastructure Plan
President Biden has committed to passing a federal infrastructure package. This week, the White House released details on what the President wants that package to include. An infrastructure investment has the potential to equip America with safer roads, bridges, and pipes, more efficient public transit systems, universal broadband, and many well-paying jobs. Although the final plan approved by Congress may look different, the President’s proposal is a starting point that kicks off negotiations and demonstrates his administration’s priorities.