Because of COVID-19 limitations implemented in March 2020, business executives in Bellingham and other border towns have expressed growing worry about the limitation on non-essential travel at land borders. The restrictions, which also apply to the US-Mexico border, have no impact on trade or other vital travel. The present restrictions will expire on June 21, but many people believe they will be renewed. After all, they've already done it 14 times since the pandemic began.
According to Reuters, the Biden administration is creating expert working groups with Canada, Mexico, the European Union, and the United Kingdom to figure out how to safely resume travel after the pandemic's 15-month travel ban. A meeting with Mexico is likely to take place shortly, while discussions with the United Kingdom and the European Union are also scheduled for the coming weeks.
Most non-US citizens who have spent the previous 14 days in the United Kingdom, the 26 Schengen countries in Europe without border controls, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran, or Brazil are now barred from entering the United States of America.
Obviously, towns, such as Bellingham, in the state of Washington are pretty integral to the reopening process of the U.S./Canada border. After all, many government officials in both countries just want to return to a semblance of normality. Quoting an article published by The Seattle Times:
"Gov. Jay Inslee wants the U.S.-Canada border to reopen soon. The two nations should grant his wish. Inslee put his request in a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. He urged them to work with their Canadian counterparts to find innovative ways to reopen the border consistent with public health guidance."
It's worth noting that there's some agreement on what needs to be done on the Canadian side. The western premiers seem to agree that some type of proof-of-vaccination should be required of international travelers, and the two-week-long federal quarantine should continue to apply to those who can't prove that they have been fully vaccinated. So, if you're traveling from Bellingham to British Columbia, make sure you have your vaccination card with you to present at the border.
Do you think the border should open immediately? Or should it remain closed? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below.