[Doofy]

http://www.wakeupfromyourslumber.com/node/64

Now: US Citizens to be Required ''Clearance'' to Leave USA International Politics October 26, 2006 Forget no-fly lists.

If Uncle Sam gets its way, beginning on Jan. 14, 2007, we'll all be on no-fly lists, unless the government gives us permission to leave-or re-enter-the United States.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSA) has proposed that all airlines, cruise lines-even fishing boats-be required to obtain clearance for each passenger they propose taking into or out of the United States.

It doesn't matter if you have a U.S. Passport - a "travel document" that now, absent a court order to the contrary, gives you a virtually unqualified right to enter or leave the United States, any time you want.

When the DHS system comes into effect next January, if the agency says "no" to a clearance request, or doesn't answer the request at all, you won't be permitted to enter or leave the United States.

I'm completely unsure as to the validity of the source, but if true: WTF?

[Big Mac]

DHS does control who enters and leaves, sure. I don't think there's anything new there.

[The Godfather]

If true, this could only mean that all US citizens need to show themselves to the neighborhood DHS office and get a travel permit document a few weeks before traveling internationally. Possibly, they be interviewed to see that they are well adjusted individuals, and of course, have nothing negative in their police records.

[Helmling]

And nothing negative in their thoughts, right?

[subego]

Originally Posted by The Godfather 

If true, this could only mean that all US citizens need to show themselves to the neighborhood DHS office and get a travel permit document a few weeks before traveling internationally. Possibly, they be interviewed to see that they are well adjusted individuals, and of course, have nothing negative in their police records.

When I went to Europe last year, I was tickled that the government accommodated my lazy ass and gave me a passport in about a day and a half.

I felt proud to be an American, that despite 9/11, at least in this case the government isn't trying to disrespect me as a citizen.

If true, this new program is a total buzzkill.

[The Godfather]

They give EU passports to any US citizens in Europe?

[mitchell_pgh]

Originally Posted by The Godfather 

If true, this could only mean that all US citizens need to show themselves to the neighborhood DHS office and get a travel permit document a few weeks before traveling internationally. Possibly, they be interviewed to see that they are well adjusted individuals, and of course, have nothing negative in their police records.

You have always needed "permission" to enter the US.

Or simply that the airlines/boats/trains must permit the DHS to review who is leaving the US one hour (as compared to airlines only... 15 minutes) before leaving.

Are they talking about this?
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Travel Document Requirements (FAQs)

[subego]

Originally Posted by The Godfather 

They give EU passports to any US citizens in Europe?

Sorry, I didn't state this very clearly.

I got a passport here a few days before I left for Europe.

[mitchell_pgh]

Yah, you can get them rather quickly if you pay...

It taking me longer to get my Russian visa.

[turtle777]

-t