The Associated Press reports that the Homeland Security Department has disclosed the effective date for the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative passport rules pertaining to air travelers. After January 23, 2007, virtually all air travelers seeking entry to the United States will have to present a passport - even U.S. citizens.

Under a separate program, Homeland Security plans to require all travelers entering the U.S. by land or sea, including Americans, to show passports or an alternative security identification card when entering the U.S. starting as early as January 2008.