North Country Congresswoman Elise Stefanik called the reopening of the northern border a “long overdue step.”

Rep. Stefanik issued the following statement on the announcement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that entry into the U.S. across the northern border will be restored for Canadian travelers in November, following more than 19 months of travel restrictions.

“After months of bipartisan advocacy, I am proud to announce the northern border will finally be reopened,” Stefanik said. “For too long, residents of the North Country have been denied access to family, travel, and commerce. Now, families can be reunited and our small businesses will be restored. I have been fighting for the North Country since the beginning and will not stop until this result is delivered for our communities. This is a long overdue step, however it is an important first step to rebuild the confidence in our cross-border relationship and friendship with our Canadian partners. I am committed to strengthening the ties along our Northern Border for the long term.”

In November, non-essential Canadian travelers who have been fully vaccinated can enter into the U.S. by land or ferry, in addition to air travel. The change goes into effect in November, although it is not clear if that means Nov. 1 or another date.

Congresswoman Stefanik has been advocating for northern border communities since the country started reopening from the pandemic.

Stefanik met with several Members of Parliament to discuss strategies to reopen the U.S. – Canada border and sent letters to each of Canada’s provincial and territorial Premiers requesting their partnership and assistance. She applauded the Canadian government’s announcement that allowed fully vaccinated Americans to travel to Canada starting on August 9, 2021.

Stefanik has consistently pressed the Biden Administration for a plan to reopen the northern border. In June, Stefanik introduced the Restoring Northern Border Travel Act and called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to bring it the Senate floor for a vote.