OLYMPIA…The Senate today
approved, 43-3, a measure to facilitate border crossings
between Washington state and British Columbia with an
enhanced driver’s license instead of the federal government
passport requirement.
Sen. Dale Brandland, who represents a
border district, voted in favor of House Bill 1289, saying
it will ease the burden of crossing the border while
maintaining security standards.
“In this district, we have five border
crossings,” said Brandland, R-Whatcom County. “It’s
important that we have an efficient and secure ID check at
each of these check points. We also want a process that
doesn’t hinder the flow of travel and trade with British
Columbia. The enhanced driver’s licenses will do that, and
it’ll also be a cheaper option than passports.”
The enhanced driver’s license or
identicard would be issued by the state Department of
Licensing, and applicants would have to provide proof of
U.S. citizenship, identity and state residency.
The bill is expected to be approved by
the governor, and later this week, the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security is expected to approve the measure as a
pilot program.
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Sen. Brandland is Republican caucus
whip and represents Washington’s 42nd District,
which includes Bellingham, Lynden and Blaine.
For more information contact Catherine Trinh
(360) 786-7503 or
trinh.catherine@leg.wa.gov