Haines is 39 miles south of the Canadian Border. (Photo by Henry Leasia)
The border between the U.S. and Canada will be closed to “non-essential” travel starting at midnight tonight [Friday March 20].
That’s according to a joint statement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Canada Border Services Agency released Friday. A document drafted by Homeland Security’s acting general counsel defines “essential travel” as U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the U.S as well as travel for medical reasons, education, necessary work, emergency responses and legal cross-border trade.
It also includes exemptions for officials, military personnel and their families. The restrictions will be in effect for 30 days before they are reviewed by both countries.
