Ahead of Visit to U.S.-Canadian Border, Stauber Appointed to Serve on the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) announced his appointment to serve on the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group, which was created to exchange information and promote better understanding between U.S. and Canadian legislators on common programs and concerns. Congressman Stauber was chosen for this position as a variety of industries within Minnesota, and Minnesota's Eighth Congressional District in particular, rely heavily on close proximity to Canada. Congressman Stauber plans to voice his concerns over the closed U.S.-Canadian border during group discussions.

Of his appointment, Congressman Stauber stated, "I am thankful that House Minority Leader McCarthy appointed me to this position as my district benefits from the special relationship held between the U.S. and our neighbors to the north, and I want to do everything in my power to help this relationship flourish. This appointment could not have happened at a better time, as I am headed to International Falls in the morning to visit the U.S.-Canadian border and hear from Minnesotans whose businesses have been suffering since the border closed to non-essential travel. I plan to bring what I hear from my constituents back to discussions with this group, and hopefully we can come to a timely and fair resolution."

Background:

Since the U.S.-Canadian border shut to non-essential travel, Congressman Stauber has heard from several concerned constituents from border towns whose businesses are suffering, and livelihoods are at risk. The Congressman has also been contacted by a number of Minnesotans who own cabins across the border and are frustrated that they haven't been able to maintain or enjoy their property during the few summer months. He shares their concerns and remains committed to doing everything he can to help.

Since May, Congressman Stauber has been advocating for the reopening of the border by contacting Customs and Border Patrol, the Canadian Consulate, MPs in Canada, other Members of Congress, State Department, and Department of Homeland Security. Conversations continue to be ongoing as the July 21^st deadline approaches.

See a letter that Congressman Stauber sent to Secretary Pompeo on the matter, HERE.

See a letter Congressman Stauber joined in sending to the Acting Secretary of Homeland Security and the Canadian Minister of Public Health and Safety, HERE.

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