Peter Welch: “the creation and support of a National Passport Month signals to Americans the important role they can play as…”

“the creation and support of a National Passport Month signals to Americans the important role they can play as ambassadors for the United States by serving as agents of understanding, tolerance and mutual respect to citizens of other countries. The use of a passport and the desire to travel to other nations will bring personal enjoyment, enrichment and interest for both traveler and host, yet less than 25 percent of Americans have passports, thereby eliminating their ability to travel outside the United States. The passport and traveling abroad will create a connection with the global community and support goodwill throughout the world. I commend my colleague, Representative Barbara Lee from California, for supporting the goals and ideals of National Passport Month, and I support and urge the swift passage of this bill.”