Border security

House bill would widen Visa Waiver Program despite concerns of intelligence gaps

In an effort to boost international tourism in the United States, two congressmen last week introduced a bill that would expand a program that permits visitors from certain participating countries to enter the country without a visa, despite fears among some that the program could also potentially admit terrorists.

The Jobs Originating through Launching Travel, or JOLT, Act (H.R. 1401), co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Heck (R-Nev.) and Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), would also expedite the visa interview process and cement certain security standards for airports, passports and travel documents.