U.S. budget proposes $5.50 fee for Canadian travellers

[The Straight Story]

U.S. budget proposes $5.50 fee for Canadian travellers

As it struggles to rein in a massive deficit, U.S. President Barack Obama’s administration is looking to squeeze revenue from every possible source – including Canadians.

The President’s proposed 2012 budget, released publicly this week, suggests charging Canadians $5.50 to enter the country by air and sea to help pay for security checks and inspections at the nation’s airports.

The small fee, which does not apply to people crossing land borders, is already charged to most international travellers to the United States, but a 1997 exemption allowed travellers flying in from Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean countries to avoid paying the levy.

The money would likely be gathered through airlines and would show up on airplane tickets.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/us-budget-proposes-550-fee-for-canadian-travellers/article1910967/

[liberal N proud]

1. Better idea - Lets get rid of the security theater at the airports

That would save billions! Then we wouldn't have to charge our visitors for the gropings.

[mmonk]

2. That would affect the Congressional national security complex.