Senators Challenge Proposal Forcing Foreign Visitors to Share Social Media Details

Two Democratic senators have called on the Trump administration to abandon a controversial proposal that would compel millions of foreign visitors to the United States to submit their social media handles used over the past five years. This policy, originating from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, targets travelers under the visa waiver program.

Senators Ed Markey and Ron Wyden voiced concerns that the requirement to disclose social media information is unnecessarily invasive, potentially deterring individuals from visiting for familial, business, or event-related purposes, such as the upcoming World Cup. They noted the potential backlash if similar demands were made by other nations on American visitors.

The Department of Homeland Security has yet to comment on the matter, though the policy could be enacted soon as indicated last December. The travel industry warns of a 'chilling effect' on tourism, while the U.S. Travel Association highlights risks of economic loss if the policy mistargets international visitors.