Gov. Doug Ducey | Facebook
Gov. Doug Ducey | Facebook
Non-essential border crossings between the U.S. and Mexico have been suspended to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
On March 20, the White House stated that only essential workers and goods will be allowed to cross the border. This decision mirrors a similar decision to limit border crossings between the U.S. and Canada.
"Recognizing the robust trade relationship between the United States and Mexico, we agree our two countries, in response to the ongoing global and regional health situation, require particular measures both to protect bilateral trade and our countries’ economies and ensure the health of our nations’ citizens. We agree to the need for a dedicated joint effort to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus and address the economic effects resulting from reduced mobility along our shared border," according to Homeland Security.
“Non-essential” travel includes travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature. The Arizona tourism industry, the hospitality industry and small businesses have already taken a huge hit because of the COVID-19 outbreak. This new rule will only further impact Arizona's economy.
The definition seems to be a bit loose. Meaning, that anyone with valid reasons for going back and forth across the border will still be able to. In a statement to KPBS, Carlos González Gutiérrez, the Consul General of México in San Diego, said U.S. or Mexican citizens with existing permission to enter either country will be able to cross to pick up medicine, see their family, and go to school or work.
“Our idea is to limit non-essential travel without disrupting the economic activity that has integrated our two economies for decades,” Gov. Doug Ducey, echoed comments from President Donald Trump and Consul General Gutierrez. “The border has not been closed. The border remains open for trade and essential services. In terms of tourism, those types of elective decisions, that’s all been stopped at this time."
It is unclear at this time how long the border restrictions will remain in place.
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