Gallego Supports Push to Reduce Passport Backlog and Modernize Services
PHOENIX, AZ – Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) signed on to the Passport Modernization Act, bipartisan legislation to reduce the wait times for Arizonans attempting to renew their passports.
“Processing delays at the State Department have caused countless Arizonans to miss family trips, special moments, and even the opportunity to see loved ones before their passing," said Rep. Gallego. “This is unacceptable and adds unnecessary stress on Arizonans. That’s why I’m backing this bill to bring down passport wait times, save consumers money, and improve accountability of the system to better serve Arizonans.”
Rep. Gallego’s office has handled nearly 200 passport requests thus far in 2023, with processing time for a passport being between 10-13 weeks. Despite the State Department’s best efforts, current funding and resource levels leave the Department unequipped to meet spikes in passport requests.
For example, there is only one passport center in Arizona, located in Tucson. The Passport Modernization Act would allow the State Department to expand its footprint and expand into new brick-and-mortar passport centers and improve wait times for Arizonans.
Specifically, the Passport Modernization Act would:
- Provide Special Hiring Authority to the Secretary of State to hire exclusively Passport and Visa Examining Series (GSA Code 0967) for three years;
- Require the Secretary to provide quarterly reports on processing times, delays, and methods that are being used to eradicate the backlog;
- Require the Department of State to modernize the online passport filing system; and
- Require the GAO to conduct a report on National Passport Information Center operations.
The Passport Modernization Act is a continuation of Rep. Gallego’s efforts to reduce the passport processing backlog. Earlier this year, Rep. Gallego sent a letter to Sec. of State Blinken requesting the State Department reduce inefficiencies in the passport application process. In July, Rep. Gallego joined another letter calling on airlines and booking companies to better inform customers of passport requirements for their travel.