Senator Gallivan Calls on Congressional Leaders to Help Ease Border Restrictions

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is urging New York’s Congressional representatives to do all they can to ease pandemic-related border restrictions between the U-S and Canada.  The request follows Canada’s recent announcement that it is extending strict border policies through September 30, including the use of ArriveCAN, a mobile app or website, to provide mandatory travel information within 72 hours before arriving in Canada.

In a letter to Congressman Brian Higgins, Congressman Chris Jacobs, Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Gallivan pointed to the negative impact the restrictions are having on the economies of both countries.

“The harsh restrictions continue to discourage cross-border travel and are hurting businesses in both the United States and Canada,” Senator Gallivan said.  “It is time to return to pre-pandemic polices and I urge our federal representatives to continue their efforts to ease the current travel requirements.”

The number of vehicles crossing the Peace Bridge in Buffalo has dropped dramatically over the past two years.  In May 2019, 171,000 passenger vehicles crossed into Canada over the Peace Bridge according to data from the Peace Bridge Authority.  In May 2022, just 101,000 passenger vehicles entered Canada over the Peace Bridge.

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