Mcnerney: Prepare Now for Passport Requirement Reinstatement

September 27, 2007

Washington, D.C. – On October 1, 2007, the State Department will reinstate the requirement that U.S. travelers bound for Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda carry a passport.  That requirement was temporarily lifted in early June.

In preparation, Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) issued the following statement.

“Despite the temporary lifting of restrictions, throughout the spring and summer my office heard from irritated travelers who had encountered difficulties in acquiring passports despite, in many cases, having submitted their paperwork on time.  It was exasperating for travelers who worried whether they’d be able to keep their travel plans.

“It was especially frustrating that the State Department was caught seemingly unprepared for the onslaught of passport applications.

“I can only hope that the State Department is now prepared for what may be an increase in applications with the reinstatement of the passport requirement.

“The Passport Backlog Reduction Act, which passed the House in July, gave the State Department authority to hire retired former staffers trained and authorized to process applications.  That, along with recognition that the volume of passport applications could be substantial, should help the State Department ensure Americans won’t have to worry if they’ll receive passports in time for their trips.

“Nevertheless, I would encourage anyone who has any plans to travel abroad in the next year to apply for a passport.  Even if your plans are not yet firm, it is advisable that you submit an application as soon as possible.

“And, as always, if you encounter difficulty in the processing of your passport application, please do not hesitate to call either my office in Stockton at (209) 476-8552 or in Pleasanton at (925) 737-0727.”

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