Erie County Legislator Joseph Lorigo co-sponsored a resolution opposing a possible border crossing fee along the United States-Canadian border. Approved unanimously at the April 25, 2013 Erie County Legislature session, the resolution will be sent to federal representatives, encouraging them to continue to fight against a recent proposal that could result in an increased cost for motorists and pedestrians to travel into the United States.

Recently the Department of Homeland Security suggested a study be conducted to review adding a border crossing fee as part of its 2014 budget proposal. Legislator Lorigo and his colleagues oppose this proposal, stating that a fee increase would have a substantial negative impact on the local economy.

“If you look at the parking lots of any of the local malls or shopping areas, you will see a great number of vehicles from Canada. These travelers positively impact our economy by boosting our sales tax revenue. If a fee is added at the border crossing, I think we’ll see a drastic decrease in these vehicles and as a result, a drop in sales tax collected. This fee would be harmful to our region and I strongly encourage our local representatives to fight this proposal,” said Legislator Lorigo.

To read a copy of the complete resolution, please CLICK HERE. In 2012, Erie County collected $410 million in sales tax revenue.

For additional information, please contact Legislator Lorigo’s Legislative Office at 858-8922 or email joseph.lorigo@erie.gov.