North Country Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Willsboro, has introduced legislation to extend by two months the time Canadians who own or lease a home in the United States can travel in the country.

The Canadian Snowbird Visa Act, or H.R. 6285, would make it legal for Canadians 50 years old or older to be “admitted as a visitor for pleasure,” to stay and travel in the U.S. for not more than 240 days out of any 365-day period as long as they don’t take a job in the U.S. or seek public assistance here.

“In the North Country, we know how important Canadian visitors are to our small business owners and to our tourism economy,” said Stefanik. “In my district, we share the St. Lawrence River with our Canadian friends who frequently cross the border in the summer months to boat, hike, kayak, or visit one of our many historical sites. Providing them with an extra two months to engage in these activities will support many small businesses, grow jobs, and foster an ever closer relationship with our northern neighbor. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.”

Canada is the number one source on international visitors to the United States, according to the announcement from congresswoman Stefanik’s office. Current law only allows Canadian visitors to stay for 182 days meaning that even quick jaunts across the border at other times of the year must be carefully planned, the statement said.