S.Res. 338Senate110th Congress (2007-2009)Passed Congress

A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Passport Month.

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Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S12385-12386; text as passed Senate: CR S12385-12386; text of measure as introduced: CR S12382)

October 1, 2007

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SenateIntro Referral

Introduced in Senate

October 1, 2007

SenateFloor

October 1, 2007

Floor Debate

3 members

What members said about S.Res. 338 on the floor

3 Democrats

Sen. Dianne FeinsteinD-CA · Oct 1, 2007

Mr. President, I rise today in support of this resolution that would designate the month of September as ``National Passport Month.'' Travel book publishers, along with travel editors from some of…

Mr. President, I rise today in support of this resolution that would designate the month of September as ``National Passport Month.''

Travel book publishers, along with travel editors from some of the most prestigious media outlets in the United States and many student travel organizations, have designated September as ``National Passport Month'' as part of a campaign to educate the public about the importance of having a passport.

This resolution supports the goals and ideals of ``National Passport Month'' and calls on the Federal Government, States, schools, businesses and the people of the United States to observe the month of September with programs and activities that will encourage Americans to get their passports and see the world.

Since 2000, the number of passport applications received by the U.S. State Department has increased by 66 percent. This year, the State Department is expected to issue a record 17 million passports, up from last year's record of 12 million.

This surge in passport applications has led to longer processing times, averaging 6 to 8 weeks. As a result, there have been significant increases in public requests for expedited processing.

The designation of September as ``National Passport Month'' will serve as an important reminder for the American people to plan ahead and begin their passport application process early.

Despite the significant increase in the number of passport applications being processed, fewer than 23 percent of Americans have passports.

This number is far too low. International travel provides a unique perspective of the world and is an invaluable opportunity to interact with the global community and experience world cultures first hand.

I want to encourage the American people to get their passports and see the world.

The designation of September as ``National Passport Month'' will not only encourage the American people to avoid delays and get their passports early, but it will also acknowledge the positive impact of international travel in promoting understanding, tolerance, acceptance, and goodwill throughout the world.

On September 5, 2007, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously agreed to an identical resolution introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee. It is my hope that this body will do the same. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Sen. Barbara BoxerD-CA · Feb 27, 2007

Mr. President, in accordance with rule XXVI(2) of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I ask that the Rules of Procedure of the Select Committee on Ethics, which were adopted February 23, 1978, and…

Sen. Sherrod BrownD-OH · Oct 1, 2007

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. Res. 338, submitted earlier today. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be…

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Agreed to SenateIssued October 1, 2007

III

110th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 338

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

October 1, 2007

Mrs. Feinstein submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to

RESOLUTION

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Passport Month.

Whereas, through international travel, Americans can individually play a major role towards improving foreign relations by building bridges and making connections with citizens of other countries;

Whereas interacting with the global community inspires Americans to reflect on the diverse multi-cultural background that has defined the United States as a great country of cooperation and progress;

Whereas having a passport and traveling abroad creates connections with the global community;

Whereas having a passport and traveling abroad promotes understanding and goodwill throughout the world, opening the doors to increased peace, tolerance, and acceptance;

Whereas having a passport and traveling abroad opens up a wealth of educational opportunities and experiences for Americans of all ages;

Whereas having a passport and traveling abroad enables Americans to see first-hand the effect of the United States on the world, including the tremendous amount of humanitarian aid given by the United States through both public and private sectors;

Whereas having a passport and traveling abroad reminds Americans that they are members of a global family and gives them opportunities to mend rifts around the world;

Whereas fewer than 23 percent of Americans have passports, thereby limiting their ability to travel outside the United States;

Whereas the more Americans travel outside the United States, the more they will experience opportunities to increase their understanding of the world and the place of the United States in it;

Whereas the creation and support of a National Passport Month signals to Americans the important role they can play as ambassadors for the United States by serving as agents of understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect; and

Whereas travel publishers along with travel editors from the most prestigious media outlets in the United States, student travel organizations, and book sellers have designated September as National Passport Month to educate the public about the importance of having a passport and the positive impact international travel has on individuals: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate—

(1)

supports the goals and ideals of National Passport Month; and

(2)

calls on the Federal Government, States, localities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, other entities, and the people of the United States to observe National Passport Month with appropriate ceremonies, programs, and activities.