“I’m glad that the Department of Homeland Security has reversed its decision and allowed New Yorkers to once more access trusted traveler programs, like Nexus. Shortly after the ban was enacted, I introduced legislation (A.10110) that would restore Customs and Border Protection access to DMV records for the trusted traveler program and successfully advocated for those changes in the state budget. I’m glad those changes led DHS to reconsider its position and reverse the ban. I thank Gov. Cuomo for recognizing the importance of trusted traveler programs to Western New Yorkers and applaud his continued advocacy for DHS to reverse its ban.

“Federal law enforcement agencies, such as CBP, need to have access to DMV records in order to keep our border safe and secure and to process trusted traveler applications.

“Our region’s economy relies heavily on safe and efficient cross-border travel. The restoration of trusted traveler programs will help our economies rebound and expedite cross-border travel, once we overcome the COVID-19 outbreak and our northern border can reopen.”