US borders with Mexico and Canada will remain closed to nonessential travel for additional month

The U.S. borders with Canada and Mexico will remain closed to nonessential travel for at least another month, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Tuesday. 

The three countries have extended their border restrictions in 30-day intervals since March 20. Previously set to be lifted on Sunday, they will now last until at least July 21. 

“Based on the success of the existing restrictions and the emergence of additional global COVID-19 hotspots, the Department will continue to limit non-essential travel at our land ports of entry with Canada and Mexico,” acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf said in a statement. “This extension protects Americans while keeping essential trade and travel flowing as we reopen the American economy.”

The restrictions allow trade but significantly reduce cross-border traffic. 

The decision comes as the United States, Mexico and Canada continue to see rising cases of coronavirus. The U.S. has the highest infection count in the world, with more than 2.1 million recorded cases and 116,341 deaths. 

“It is clear that there is broad consensus across the provinces that we need to continue to keep current border measures in place,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said at a press conference Tuesday. “This is an important decision that will keep people in both of our countries safe.” 

CNN reported Tuesday that Mexico is conducting a safety review of Canadian health policies and procedures before allowing any more temporary workers to travel to Canada to work in the agricultural sector.