Tighter U.S. Border ID Rules Begin (Texas too)

[sonias]

AAS article 1/31/08
Tighter U.S. Border ID Rules Begin
By ARTHUR H. ROTSTEIN
Associated Press Writer

TUCSON, Ariz. — New rules for the types of identification U.S. and Canadian citizens must present to cross into the country went into effect Thursday and authorities were optimistic the changes wouldn't cause significant delays.

(snip)
Instead, those 19 and older will have to show proof of citizenship — a passport, trusted traveler card or a birth certificate and government-issued ID such as a driver's license.

(snip)
But Ahern said new passport cards the size of credit cards will allow citizens to cross the U.S.-Mexican border effectively and efficiently. Applications should be available starting Friday, although processing will take three to four months. Cards without previously issued passports will cost $45 for adults and $35 for children; they will cost $20 and $10, respectively, for those with passports.

Drivers' licenses enhanced with proof of citizenship and a radio frequency identification chip also will be accepted, Ahern added. Four states including Arizona have signed up for a federal program to offer the licenses. British Columbia also is experimenting with similar new high-tech licenses.


(snip)
On the Net:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection: http://www.cbp.gov/

Just in case your weren't paying attention. Passports - don't cross the border without them - even for a day trip.

Sonia

[WolverineDG]

1. No fake

The local passport office (ie main post office) has had the passport folks set up OUTSIDE ON THE PORCH because there are so many people getting them. They've even contracted with the Tax Assessor-Collector's office & once that was open, they were immediately flooded with appointments & had to stop taking them because they are booked solid until next week. :crazy: And don't get me started on that damn wall. :grr:

It's so STUPID that we have to put up with this crap so that John & Martha Framus in Lower Podunk PA can feel safer from the "Messicans" when in fact they are in more danger from terrorists coming in from Canada.

dg

[sonias]

2. Don't get me started on that damn wall either

This is going to hurt the economies of our border cities - on both sides. And of course our "headed for a recession" economy could use some more hits. :sarcasm:

Sonia