White House Develops Frequent Traveler Program

A new international travel program is in the works, according to the National Journal’s Technology Daily. The “global enrollment system," as Elaine Dezenski, acting assistant secretary for border and transportation security at DHS called it, would include such measures as quicker lines and security screenings in exchange for a fee and biographical and biometric data. This proposal is based on a current, controversial domestic registered-travel system.

Although many civil rights advocates have expressed concern with the new program, citing questions of cost, privacy, and whether or not it will actually improve security, White House officials believe that it will strengthen the nation’s borders, especially in the cases of those who cross the border frequently. A new database would contain names and biometric information, such as fingerprints or scanned irises, for travelers who cross borders on a regular basis.  

< Back | Index | Next >

Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk.