New legislation aims to increase travel preclearance facilities, increase border security

The U.S. Senate passed this week the Promoting Travel, Commerce and National Security Act of 2016. The bill will allow travelers to pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspections prior to traveling to reduce overall wait times and aid in identifying individuals who represent a threat to U.S. national security.

The United States currently operates preclearance facilities at 15 airport locations in six countries, including Canada. Upon being signed into law, the bill would expand its pre-clearance operations in Canada, which will include rail preclearance facilities for the first time. Bill sponsors, U.S. Sens. Ron Johnson (R-WI) and Patrick Leahy (D-VT), said it was necessary prerequisite for the full implementation of the pre-clearance agreement between the United States and Canada.

“I have been a strong advocate of enhancing preclearance operations, which extends the United States’ virtual border to the last point of departure,” Johnson said. “In February, we passed legislation through our committee to authorize the Department of Homeland Security to expand preclearance operations. With this bill, we further enhance preclearance efforts to other modes of transportation. This legislation will make our borders more secure without impeding legitimate travel. This is an important step Congress has taken to enhance our national security.”

The bill now awaits the President’s signature.