**Kuster’s Promoting Travel, Commerce, and National Security Act was signed into law in the United States last year** 

**Legislation would promote trade and tourism, improve national security between the U.S. and Canada**

Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) applauded the approval by Canadian Parliament of a bilateral border security agreement that will allow the United States and Canada to expand preclearance customs facilities. Kuster’s bipartisan legislation, the Promoting Travel, Commerce, and National Security Act, which was signed into law last year, will improve travel and trade opportunities for businesses in northern border communities and help to strengthen national security. The next step is putting in place regulations between the United States and Canada so that the expansion of preclearance facilities can move forward.

“I’m excited that Canada has approved the border agreement that will allow my legislation to facilitate trade between the United States and Canada to move forward,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “Expanding preclearance facilities at land, marine and rail ports of entry will encourage economic growth in New Hampshire and across the northern border states. Creating more opportunities for our small businesses to reach new customers will help create jobs and grow our economy. This commonsense legislation, which will strengthen security along our northern border and boost tourism, is a win for New Hampshire and communities across the country. I look forward to regulations being finalized between the United States and Canada so the Agreement can be ratified. ”

The Promoting Travel, Commerce, and National Security Act will allow for the expansion of preclearance facilities, operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), at land, rail, marine, and air ports of departure in Canada. The United States currently operates preclearance facilities at 15 airports in six countries, including Canada.  These facilities allow travelers to pass through CBP inspections prior to traveling, expediting their arrival in the United States, and protecting national security by preventing those who should not be traveling to the United States from doing so before they arrive.

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