PORTLAND (AP) – A federal official Friday said the government will be flexible in implementing new identification standards for re-entering the United States.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Assistant Commissioner Thomas Winkowski said border agents next week will begin handing out cards explaining the new regulations to people crossing into the country.

“We want people to know what the requirements are, and if they don’t have the proper documents, we’re going to be very flexible and use a common-sense approach,” said Winkowski. But he also urged anyone who might have occasion to leave the country to get the right documentation soon.

Rules imposed under the government’s Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative are intended to make the country’s borders safer from terrorism.

Under the current standards, U.S. and Canadian citizens entering the country by land can show an ID and tell the agent their nationality.

But starting next Thursday, they’ll have to show a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, plus a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship.

Then in June 2009 or after, American travelers entering at U.S. sea or land ports will need either a U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card, or a “Trusted Traveler card” from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Other specified documents will be acceptable for military members, maritime workers and certain other groups.

Customs and immigration officials have been traveling to other border states as part of a nationwide effort to publicize the change. The new rules have drawn criticism from those who fear they will cause backups at the border and discourage Canadians from coming to the United States.

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On the Net:

State Department: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbcmc/-2223.html

AP-ES-01-25-08 1806EST

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