IL HR0717

Urges Congress to pass the Secure Travel and Counterterrorism Partnership Program Act of 2011 to modernize Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requirements and make Poland and other U.S. allies eligible for participation.

Notes Poland remains excluded from the VWP despite nearly a century of diplomatic relations with the United States and reciprocal visa exemption for U.S. citizens since 1991.

Cites Poland's military support in Iraq and Afghanistan, with 2,500 Polish soldiers currently deployed and at least 24 troops killed in action.

Highlights economic benefits of VWP expansion: in 2008, VWP countries generated 16 million visits to the U.S. (65% of overseas arrivals), spending $51 billion and creating 512,000 jobs, $13 billion in payroll, and $7.8 billion in taxes.

States the updated VWP would enhance national security through improved information sharing between the United States and member countries.