Thompson: Proper Implementation of ESTA is Critical
June 24, 2008 (WASHINGTON) – Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced the release of a Government Accountability (GAO) Report on the potential impact on State Department visa operations should there be significant changes to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including program elimination or expansion and the implementation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. Even small increases in visa demand in the highest traveler volume VWP countries, according to GAO, could overwhelm current staffing and facilities for processing visas. The report highlights the need for more strategic planning and the importance of collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State.
Chairman Thompson released the following statement with the release of the report:
“The GAO report makes clear that the Departments of Homeland Security and State are not well prepared for the possible elimination or expansion of the VWP. For successful expansion, both departments must ensure that the security enhancements Congress mandated in the 9/11 Commission Act are effectively implemented. If DHS fails to implement the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) properly, certain travelers may be discouraged from participating in the VWP, and some of our embassies and consulates could be faced with an overwhelming demand for visas. The Bush Administration is clearly eager to expand the VWP, but implementing ESTA with the benefit of sound and deliberate planning is just as important as implementing it quickly. I would hope that DHS and State comply fully with GAO's recommendations and better coordinate their efforts to implement ESTA."
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Dena Graziano or Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978.
