Canadian lawmakers OK customs preclearance for travel between U.S., Canada

The Canadian Senate has passed legislation aimed at streamlining rail and air travel between the United States and Canada.

Known as C-23, the bill last week received Royal Assent, marking the last step in the Canadian legislative process. The law establishes streamlined customs procedures for air travel — and eventually passenger-rail service — between the United States. and Canada.

In particular, the bill authorizes the Canadian government to designate preclearance areas and perimeters. Additionally, the legislation gives U.S. agents the power to facilitate preclearance, according to the bill's summary on openparliament.ca.

The law is a companion to the United States' Promoting Travel, Commerce and National Security Act, which became law in 2016.

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), who sponsored the U.S. law, hailed the passage of the C-23 as a milestone that will allow smoother travel to Canada.

"With this legislation now in place, Canada and the United States— and especially Vermont — are poised to reap the rewards of improved border security and better economic growth," Leahy said in a press release. "I look forward to continuing my work and partnership with the Canadian government to make expanded preclearance a reality."