Alternate theory on what Sanders is talking about here that MAY NOT BE A LIE:
ESTA
ESTA
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is the fee paid by non-US citizens from Visa Waiver countries (Canada, Mexico, Europe) to facilitate their travel to the US.
cbp.gov/travel/interna…
cbp.gov/travel/interna…
ESTA started after 9/11 to help us get better biometrics on people coming in and out of the country.
Fully implemented in 2010, every time a person come here they are charged $14. $4 goes to @CBP to maintain the system. $10 goes to Commerce to promote tourism through the Travel Promotion Act.
Why promote tourism? Because it is a major creator of JOBS. More importantly, jobs that don't require advanced skills...rather a knowledge of your home town or an ability to wait tables.
It was also used to create public private partnerships that thrive today and have the metrics to prove it: thebrandusa.com
So what does that have to do with @WHPressSec comments today? I think it's a hint that they are going to redirect ESTA funds from travel promotion to building a wall.
So that $10 that goes to Commerce to promote more people visiting the USA? Attempt to move that to pay for the wall. After all, most Americans would think that tourism promotion is kind of lame, not realizing the economic impact.
Plus, Steven Miller wants no one to come here for any reason, so it makes sense to him.
It would be stupid to do it. Hotels, airlines, mayors, governors, Disney would line up against it. But remember, the Commerce budget is still on the table.
Like I said, it's a theory.
ESTA.
Keep your eyes peeled for attempts to pillage an economic driver.
It's Trump's way
Like I said, it's a theory.
ESTA.
Keep your eyes peeled for attempts to pillage an economic driver.
It's Trump's way
Arrival info and stats on the fees can be found here: tinet.ita.doc.gov
