The Special Action Fund is an essential resource used when an immediate threat to the rights and privileges of our members arises. The Special Action Fund allows the CSA to mobilize quickly when there is no time to seek donations and when rapid government lobbying, legal action, or policy consultation is needed.
Most recently, the Fund played a key role in supporting the CSA's successful legal challenge against the Ontario government's attempt to eliminate emergency out-of-country health coverage. Thanks to this effort, the policy was overturned, protecting access to essential emergency medical coverage for our members abroad.
The Fund has also supported the CSA's ongoing advocacy for a retiree visa, which would allow Canadian retirees to spend up to eight months per year in the United States, modernizing outdated rules and better reflecting the lifestyle and economic contributions of today's snowbirds. This proposal continues to be advanced on Capitol Hill through sustained engagement with U.S. lawmakers.
The CSA has a strong record of acting swiftly and effectively when members' travel rights are threatened. For example, when the state of Florida introduced a requirement that foreign drivers obtain an International Driving Permit, the CSA immediately intervened and successfully pushed for its repeal. Likewise, when U.S. legislation once threatened to restrict Canadians to 30-day visits, the CSA appeared before Congress, with support from U.S. governors and major travel industry groups, and successfully defeated the proposal.
In each of these instances, none of this work would have been possible without the Special Action Fund.
Do concerns about global security and its impact on cross-border travel affect you?
Are limits on prescription medications for extended travel creating challenges?
Or do you simply believe it is essential that your voice be heard when Canadian or U.S. legislation threatens your ability to travel freely?
While the political landscape for travelling Canadians is unpredictable and ever-changing, we know that the road ahead will bring unexpected challenges. With the Special Action Fund, the CSA is prepared to meet them and to continue protecting your right to travel with confidence.