CBP Seeks Comments on International Travel Improvements, Closes Border Crossing

The following are recent developments from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP):

International travel improvements. CBP seeks comments by August 15, 2014, on proposed improvements in the entry process and airport-specific plans for international travelers to the United States. On May 22, 2014, President Obama directed the Secretaries of Commerce and Homeland Security to lead an interagency team over the next 120 days, in close partnership with industry, to develop a national goal and airport-specific plans to enhance the entry process for international travelers to the United States. The measures the administration is taking to expedite the arrivals process are intended to enhance security by focusing officer time on the highest-risk passengers and facilitating the process for the vast majority of legitimate travelers. The notice seeks comments on a list of questions. The questions ask for suggestions for improvement in the international arrival experience, technology, passport and baggage inspections, and related issues.

Jamieson Line, New York, border crossing closes. As of August 21, 2014, CBP is closing the Jamieson Line, New York, border crossing in Burke. CBP said the primary reason was the Canada Border Services Agency’s closing of the adjacent port of entry in Québec, Canada. Other factors included very limited usage (less than six privately owned vehicles per day); alternative ports located at Trout River, New York, and Chateaugay, New York; lack of sufficient infrastructure at the border; and the cost of renovations if the port were to remain open.

See also,

• The Federal Register notice announcing the proposed improvements in international travel
• The Federal Register notice announcing the closure.