Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are joining with governors across the United States is asking for both the Canadian and US Governments to immediately reinstate the vaccine and quarantine exemptions available to cross border truck drivers.
The open letter lays states, "We understand the vital importance of vaccines in the fight against COVID-19 and continue to encourage eligible individuals to get vaccinated. However, we are deeply concerned that terminating these exemptions has had demonstrably negative impacts on the North American supply chain, the cost of living, and access to essential products for people in both of our countries.
"The timing of your decision to terminate the vaccine and quarantine exemptions could not have been worse, as North America already faces grave supply chain constraints," the letter states.
The premiers and governors say that the change in policy adds constraints, has placed significant burdens on the residents of Canada and the United States.
Along with Moe, and Kenney, Governor of Montana Greg Gianforte, Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama, Governor Mike Dunleavy of Alaska, Governor Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas, Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia, Governor Brian Brad Little of Idaho, Governor Kim Reynolds of Ioaw, Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi, Governor Mike Parson of Missouri, Governor Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Governor Doug Burgum of North Dakota, Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina, Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota, Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee, Governor Spencer Cox of Utah, and Governor Mark Gordon Wyoming signed the letter.
The open letter was sent to President Joe Biden and Prime Minsiter Justin Trudeau.
The vaccine and quarantine exemptions available to cross border truck drivers was removed on January 15th, 2022. Both the US and Canadian Government both had requirements for cross border travel for truck divers.