Canada’s Hotel Association Lauds U.S. Decision to Push Back Passport Requirement Deadline

The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) has applauded the decision of the U.S. House and Senate to push back the passport requirement deadline for all travelers entering the United States by land. The new date for the implementation of this requirement is now June 1, 2009.

“The Hotel Association of Canada has always recognized that continental security is critical for all,” stated HAC President Tony Pollard. “We want to do this right at the outset –including the necessary technological infrastructure and conversion standards and training.”

Important to note is that the approved WHTI extension refers specifically to the land and sea requirement –air travel is not a part of this approved wording, and is currently under review by the Department of Homeland Security for potential implementation as of January 8, 2007.

“The HAC is pleased with the outcome of the process,” said Pollard. “This follows extensive lobbying in Washington and Ottawa and now allows us the time to focus on informing a confused public about current identification requirements and existing options like NEXUS.”