The Manitoba government says over the next two years, it will introduce a new photo identification card and an enhanced driver's licence to allow residents to travel to the U.S.
American officials have said that by June 1, 2009, Canadians entering into the U.S. by land or sea will have to produce an approved document confirming their identity and citizenship.
Justice Minister Dave Chomiak says with new security regulations looming, they had to come up with an alternative that would allow Manitobans to travel to U.S. destinations.
While the new photo ID cards could be available this fall for non-drivers, an enhanced driver's licence is slated to come on stream in the fall of 2009.
Passports will still be required for air travel.
Only 31 per cent of Manitobans hold passports, but Chomiak says that a two-way flow of citizens across the border is important to the province.
