Project Enforcement

As Canada–U.S. relations continue to evolve under the weight of shifting political, economic, and security landscapes, the Canada Arizona Business Council (CABC) is launching Project Enforcement—a strategic initiative designed to bring clarity and transparency to current border-related issues that are increasingly impacting Canadian travelers, snowbirds, and business stakeholders in Arizona. Recent headlines, social media chatter, and anecdotal reports have contributed to a growing sense of fear and confusion regarding cross-border enforcement, legal rights, and overall safety for Canadians visiting or operating in Arizona. Project Enforcement seeks to replace that uncertainty with facts, direct communication, and actionable guidance.

At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to correcting misinformation and addressing legitimate concerns about how evolving enforcement practices may affect Canadians. Issues such as increased scrutiny at ports of entry, searches, detainments, and a general lack of understanding around legal rights while in the U.S. have led many to question the safety and predictability of travel and investment in the region. With Arizona’s proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border playing a unique role in shaping enforcement policies, it is more important than ever to distinguish between perception and reality. Canadians deserve a clear picture of what’s changed, what remains the same, and how they can navigate this environment with confidence.

Project Enforcement will focus on several key areas: correcting border-related misconceptions; providing accurate crime statistics and law enforcement updates relevant to Canadian communities and businesses in Arizona; highlighting the state’s ongoing safety initiatives; and exploring the broader cultural and geographic dynamics that inform Arizona’s enforcement posture. The initiative will also address the economic impact of declining Canadian tourism and investment, with early indicators suggesting a potential 20% drop in Canadian visitors for the upcoming 2025–2026 winter season—much of it driven by fear rather than fact as well as emotions by national political statements. We see this being done through the distribution of educational materials, our quarterly meetings and other speciality meetings with enforcement agencies, and the creation of forums for open dialogue, CABC is taking a proactive stance in supporting its members and the broader Canadian community in Arizona.

Ultimately, Project Enforcement is built on the belief that the Canada–Arizona relationship is too valuable to be undermined by uncertainty or misinformation. With over 500 Canadian-owned or controlled companies already operating in Arizona, and thousands of seasonal visitors and snowbirds contributing to the state’s economy, mutual understanding and transparency are critical. This initiative is not about downplaying legitimate changes or concerns—it’s about making sure Canadians are equipped with the information they need to make informed, not reactive, decisions based on political statements. Whether you are planning a vacation, spending the winter months in Arizona, or growing your business across the border, you deserve to feel safe, supported, and well-informed.

Moving forward, the CABC invites all members, community leaders, and stakeholders to actively participate in Project Enforcement by sharing their experiences, asking critical questions, and helping to shape the conversations that matter. Our success depends on collaboration—between Canadians and Americans, public and private sectors, visitors and residents. Together, we can ensure that cross-border relationships remain strong, that investments are protected, and that Canadians continue to see Arizona not as a place of risk, but of opportunity, security, and long-standing partnership.

Looking ahead, Project Enforcement will serve as a long-term platform for maintaining open communication and responding to emerging issues as they arise. As policies shift and new challenges emerge—whether related to immigration, public safety, or bilateral trade—we are committed to staying agile, informed, and responsive. This is not a one-time campaign, but a sustained effort to ensure that Canada–Arizona ties remain resilient, respected, and ready for the future. Through informed advocacy, cross-border engagement, and continued education, CABC is proud to lead this effort with clarity, integrity, and purpose.