Congress eases entry to U.S.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The Homeland Security Appropriations Bill passed by Congress will encourage tourism by easing U.S. entry for legitimate travelers, an industry group said.

The Travel Industry Association said that 2 million fewer foreign nationals visited the United States in 2007 than in 2000, mostly because getting into the country has become so onerous. The group estimates that the country has lost 46 million overseas visitors since the 2001 terrorist attacks, costing the United States $140 billion they would have spent and $23 billion in tax revenue.

The group said that the appropriations bill includes $10 million for the global entry program, which allows international travelers to register and provide background details in advance. Another $8.75 million has been earmarked to hire 173 Customs and Border Protection agents.

Congress also added $500,000 to hire more staff for the visa waiver program, which allows nationals of some countries visa-free entry.