IL HR0246

Urges Congress to pass the Secure Travel and Counterterrorism Partnership Program Act of 2013 to modernize Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requirements and make Poland and other U.S. allies eligible to participate.

Notes that Poland is excluded from the VWP despite nearly a century-long diplomatic relationship with the United States and has reciprocated by waiving visa requirements for U.S. citizens since 1991.

Highlights Poland's military contributions as a staunch U.S. ally with 2,500 troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, with at least 24 Polish troops killed in action.

Cites economic benefits of VWP expansion, stating that 17 million VWP country visitors spent nearly $61 billion in the U.S. in 2010, supporting 433,000 jobs and generating $9 billion in tax revenues.

Directs that copies of the resolution be sent to the Speaker and Minority Leader of the U.S. House, U.S. Senate leadership, and the Illinois congressional delegation.