The Skeena
Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach is urging people across the region to be on the look-out for Americans who are violating new restrictions on driving to Alaska.
“My hope is that people are using common sense and that anyone coming in through the United States is following the rules, taking a direct route as possible. Of course if residents do see someone that they’re sure is in violation of the rules they can report that to authorities,” he said, according to MyBulkleyLakesNow.
“The reality is our communities here in the Northwest are doing so much to try and prevent the spread of the virus to protect our communities. It would be really sad to see someone carelessly spreading the virus,” Bachrach said.
In late August, the federal government announced strict new rules for Americans traversing B.C. on their way to Alaska. Drivers can only enter from one of five designated border crossings, including in Abbotsford, Osoyoos and Kingsgate. They are issued a tag that shows the date that they must leave Canada.
“While in Canada, travellers must: remain in the vehicle as much as possible, not make any unnecessary stops, practice physical distancing at all times, pay at the pump if they need gas, use a drive through if they need food, wear a suitable mask or face covering while in transit, ensure good hygiene practices if they need to use a rest area and avoid contact with others while in transit,” the Prince George Citizen reported.
The RCMP has reportedly given 6 violations across the province for foreign visitors who weren’t properly following the rules. The restrictions will last at least until August 21 and in the worst case violators can be given a fine up to $75,000 and sent to jail for six months.
