HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 96-4733, by Representatives Elliot and Linville

      WHEREAS, The Pacific Northwest Region comprising of Washington, Alaska, British Columbia, Alberta, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon contains numerous border crossings between the United States and Canada; and

      WHEREAS, Cultural, social, and economic exchanges between the citizens, organizations, and businesses of the region have historically been and continue to be an integral part of the regions economic and cultural development; and

      WHEREAS, The historically close and constant ties between the two  countries of Canada and the United States have been forged and maintained by continuous cultural exchanges ranging from fraternities, social, sports, and business clubs to name but a few; and

      WHEREAS, The rapid changes in global affairs require countries to renew and enhance their ties with neighboring states and countries; and

      WHEREAS, Millions of individuals cross the borders of the Pacific Northwest per annum including numerous tourists expending billions of dollars in the United States and Canada; and

      WHEREAS, A border crossing fee as proposed by current federal legislation would adversely impact both the economy, culture, and quality of life for many of the regions' citizens;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives respectfully request that the United States Congress reject any proposal that would levy a fee on any individuals crossing the borders of the United States; and

            BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted to the Honorable William J. Clinton, President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, each member of Congress from the State of Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Idaho, and the Secretary of the United States Customs and Immigration Department.

      I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

      Resolution 4733 adopted by the House of Representatives

                          March 7, 1996.

                 ________________________________

                  Timothy A. Martin, Chief Clerk