PLATTSBURGH -- Passports won't be required to enter the United States at land or sea border crossings until June 1, 2009.

Local officials are thrilled with the delay and the new secure-document options.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State recently announced the final rule for land and sea ports under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

"Our chamber has been working aggressively with all of our border partners on this issue for two years now, and we have definitely had an impact," Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce President Garry Douglas said.

"Thanks to our congressional friends, especially (U.S. Rep.) John McHugh and (U.S. Sen.) Chuck Schumer, we have time now to hopefully do this right and not just fast."

That includes the rollout of enhanced driver's licenses by the state of New York, expected this fall.

Other states and Canadian provinces, including Quebec, are expected to follow with enhanced driver's licenses.

Douglas said the final rule also provides multiple options to passports and an exemption for children or youth groups.

DOUBLE PROOF

In a press release, Schumer applauded the decision to postpone the passport requirement until next year.

He also restated his concerns about the requirement that U.S. and Canadian travelers carry both proof of identity and citizenship to cross at land and sea ports, which began Jan. 31.

"It is a shame that Congress had to step in before DHS finally agreed to put on the brakes, rather than rushing headfirst into implementing WHTI rules, when there is neither the technology nor the system in place to make sure the border is kept secure and efficient," Schumer said.

"This is a step in the right direction, but I will continue fighting this hare-brained plan and working with DHS to find a smart manner to both beef up security at our borders and protect commerce."

PASSPORT CARD

For U.S. citizens, documents that will be accepted, in addition to passports, include a new passport card being offered by the Department of State; trusted-traveler cards, such as NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI; an enhanced driver's license; a U.S. green card; or a U.S. military identification card, if traveling on orders.