U.S. Keeps Canadian Border Closed for Another Month
PORT ANGELES – The U.S. government on Wednesday extended the closure of the land borders with Canada and Mexico to non-essential travelers until at least Aug. 21.
The announcement by the Department of Homeland Security came two days after the Canadian government announced it would begin letting fully vaccinated U.S. citizens into Canada on Aug. 9, and those from the rest of the world on Sept. 7.
It also means the MV Coho in Port Angeles will stay idled at least until August 21st. Coho officials say they won’t run the service if they can’t bring passengers back from Canada.
The U.S. announcement notes that vaccination levels in the United States and Canada have increased and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lowered the COVID-19 risk level in the two countries from “very high” to “high.”
But northern border politicians are calling for a reopening sooner.
Sixth District Congressman Derek Kilmer released a statement following yesterday’s announcement.
“Having grown up in Port Angeles, I know how important tourism is to our region’s economy. I was heartened when Canada announced it would ease border restrictions on August 9 for people who are fully vaccinated, but it’s disappointing that our country hasn’t followed suit. I’m concerned this will continue to burden folks who have already been through a lot this year. I’ll keep pushing for the Biden Administration to get our border re-opened so we can help our small businesses and the workers that depend on them.”
Source: My Clallam County