“Each day Canada and the US do roughly $1.4 billion in trade and have 300,000 trips across the border. This makes up the world’s largest bilateral trading partnership,” Stupak said. “But, homeland security needs along the northern border have drastically changed post September 11. We need additional input from Members of Congress in order to ensure a safe and smoothly functioning border, mindful of both the homeland security needs and cross-border trade.”

The Northern Border Caucus was originally established in 1994 after the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Since then, the caucus has highlighted concerns and issues affecting U.S.-Canadian relations and the economic partnership. This year Stupak plans to particularly focus on border security issues in addition to the many other important related issues.

 “With several thousand miles of international border to protect, the Northern Boarder Caucus is comprised of Representatives from states all along that border who are committed to protecting our national security as well as promoting the best interests of the U.S. when it comes to trade and economic issues,” Stupak said. 

Michigan’s entire Congressional delegation are members of the caucus. In past Congresses, the caucus has held joint US/Canadian meetings and briefings with high ranking Department of Homeland Security officials, department of Commerce officials, the Ambassador of Canada and members of the Canadian Parliament. The caucus has been instrumental in requesting increased funding for homeland security at the northern border.

“We will continue to expand upon the progress that the caucus has made in fostering a strong overall relationship between the two countries,” Stupak said.

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