Boozman: Passport Decision Welcome Move

Press Release

Boozman: Passport Decision Welcome Move

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) today praised the decision by the federal government to grant a temporary solution for Americans with impending travel dates, but whose passport has been delayed due to the implementation of new requirements for travel within the Western Hemisphere.

The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security announced today that U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can nevertheless temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through September 30, 2007.

"This is a welcome move which will allow thousands for people to take honeymoons, vacations, or travel on business in the Western Hemisphere," Boozman said. This is a temporary solution which will allow air travel to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean with a valid ID and proof of application of a passport.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) was mandated by Congress in the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to strengthen border security and facilitate entry into the United States for citizens and legitimate international visitors. WHTI requirements for air travel took effect on January 23, 2007.

"During the past few weeks, my office has been working with Passport officials to get through the backlog of applications so Third District residents can get their passports before their summer travel. We have met with considerable success, and we appreciate everyone's patience during the delays," Boozman continued.

"I want to emphasize that this is a temporary solution which expires at the end of September," Boozman added. "I want to urge everyone to get a passport, even if you do not have any immediate international travel plans. A passport is valid for ten years, and the sooner you apply, the sooner you will eventually get your passport delivered to you."

Adults who have applied for but not yet received a passport should present government-issued photo identification and an official proof of application from the U.S. Department of State. Children under the age of 16 traveling with their parents or legal guardian will be permitted to travel with the child's proof of application. Travelers who have not applied for a passport should not expect to be accommodated. U.S. citizens with pending passport applications can obtain proof of application at: http://travel.state.gov.

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