Passport Needed for Border Crossings
After January 31, 2008, most individuals will need to carry a US. Passport, a passport card (still being developed) a “trusted traveler” card, military ID or merchant mariner ID. Mexican citizens may still use Border Crosser cards. There will be exceptions for first-responders and for emergencies, but it’s not certain how authorities will handle a lost-passport situations.
This is not yet set in stone. Beginning June 30, there is a 60-day comment period on the sea and land portion of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, a component of the Patriot Act signed into law by President George W. Bush 45 days after 9/11.
You may comment on the proposal up through Aug. 27. Just log on to http://www.regulations.gov. The comment must be labeled with the docket number, USCBP-2007-0061. This is number is important whether you use electronic or regular mail.
Comments may also be submitted through regular mail to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of International Trade, Office of Regulations and Ruling, Border Security Regulations Branch, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, [Mint Annex], Washington, DC 20229. These comments must also be labeled with the docket number.
All comments will be posted on the government regulations Web site, according the notice of proposed rule change. Comments submitted by mail will be available for public viewing at the office.