With a decline in Canadian travel to the United States, an Alberta senator is pushing for a Canadian-specific program that would expedite airport security for travelers. Senator Paula Simons introduced a motion last fall urging the federal government to establish a trusted traveler program within Canada.
In an interview with CBC News, Simons highlighted the reliance on the Nexus process, which is currently the only way for the general public to become verified travelers. She emphasized the need for a separate program that is not tied to the U.S., as some Canadian airports already offer expedited security lines for verified travelers such as military personnel, RCMP, and select police officers.
Under the existing system, Canadians must travel to the U.S. for Nexus interviews, a process that was previously conducted in Canada before the pandemic. Simons’ proposed program would not include all Nexus benefits but would cater to Canadians who do not frequently travel to the U.S.
A recent report from the Parliamentary Budget Office estimates that the suggested program would cost $7 million over five years, factoring in application fees. Simons argued that a slightly higher fee could help the program break even, comparing it to the $120 US cost of a Nexus application.
The U.S. has its own verified traveler program, TSA PreCheck, separate from Nexus. Simons’ initiative has garnered support from the Canadian Airports Council, advocating for a domestic trusted traveler program controlled by Canada to enhance screening efficiency.
Simons pointed out a human rights concern, citing the U.S.’s exclusion of an “X” gender marker on Nexus applications, which she views as discriminatory. She expects her motion to be voted on in the coming months and is hopeful for government action if it passes.