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Travel Freedom Act
12/15/2023, 4:06 PM
Summary of Bill S 455
One of the key provisions of the Travel Freedom Act is the establishment of guidelines for the Department of Homeland Security to follow when implementing travel restrictions or security measures. This is intended to ensure that any restrictions placed on travel are necessary and proportionate to the threat being addressed.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to streamline the visa application process for travelers coming to the United States. This is aimed at making it easier for tourists, business travelers, and other visitors to enter the country, while still maintaining necessary security measures. The Travel Freedom Act also seeks to protect the rights of American citizens who are traveling abroad. It includes provisions to assist US citizens who may face difficulties while traveling, such as being detained or denied entry to a foreign country. Overall, the Travel Freedom Act is focused on promoting the freedom of Americans to travel while also ensuring that necessary security measures are in place. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its ultimate fate will depend on the support it receives from lawmakers.
Congressional Summary of S 455
Travel Freedom Act
This bill nullifies certain orders issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that restrict noncitizens from entering the United States if they are not full vaccinated against COVID-19.
Specifically, the bill nullifies the CDC order titled Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic and published on April 7, 2022. (The order restricts the entry of noncitizens who are not immigrants into the United States by air travel unless they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or otherwise attest that they will take public health measures to prevent the spread of the disease.)
Additionally, the bill nullifies the DHS order titled Notification of Temporary Travel Restrictions Applicable to Land Ports of Entry and Ferries Services Between the United States and Canada and published on April 22, 2022. (The order restricts the entry of noncitizens who are not immigrants along the United States-Canada border, including at ferry terminals, unless they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and can provide proof upon request.)
The bill also nullifies any successor or subsequent orders that require proof of a COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of entry into the United States and prohibits the use of federal funds to administer or enforce such requirements.
