Travel leaders applauded President Bush for signing legislation that contains two provisions that send a more welcoming message to international visitors to the U.S., hailing it as “the most significant  travel reform since 9/11.”

The legislation, which addresses recommendations proposed by the 9/11 Commission, contains a provision to strengthen and expand the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This modernization of the VWP will allow more legitimate business and leisure travelers to visit the U.S. visa-free while enhancing security through an air exit tracking system, increased information sharing between nations and other controls.

The legislation also will provide a more efficient and welcoming arrival process at America’s top 20 overseas inbound airports, which welcome 90 percent of all overseas arrivals to the U.S. The program would include enhanced queue management and instructional and welcome videos in the Federal Inspection Services area. In addition, the provision provides for no fewer than 200 additional U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers to help alleviate excessive wait times at these airports.

“This important legislation tightens security while allowing for millions more business and leisure travelers from overseas to come to the U.S. More visitors will in turn help improve America’s image abroad while at the same time providing thousands more American jobs,” said Jonathan Tisch, Chairman of the Travel Business Roundtable and Chairman and CEO of Loews Hotels.

“This is the most significant travel reform since 9/11 and sends a clear message to our friends around the world that we want them to visit and they will have a positive experience when they arrive,” said Roger J. Dow, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Travel Industry Association. “We thank President Bush and all of the Congressional leaders who have worked tirelessly to pass this legislation,” added Dow.

Legislators who played a significant role in helping pass these provisions include Senators George Voinovich (R-OH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) Daniel Inouye (D-HI), Ted Stevens (R-AK), Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and Ranking Member Susan Collins (R-ME), House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and Ranking Member Peter King (R-NY).