Border bros: Owens, Cramer re-launch caucus

U.S. Reps. Bill Owens, D-Plattsburgh, and Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., announced in a press release today that they will serve as co-chairs of the group, which aims to promote the interests of states along the Canadian border.

"Canadian investment is incredibly important to job creation and economic development in Northern Border Communities," Owens said in a prepared statement. "Canada's presence bolsters U.S. tourism, creates opportunities to recruit businesses across the border and improves sales for local retail operations, resulting in billions of dollars in economic impact in New York State alone."

Cramer said the caucus will "serve as a vital component" as the U.S. and Canada continue developing energy and water resources. "Working hand in hand with Canada will ensure resources are developed in a reasonable manner while creating jobs," Cramer said.

The press release notes that with nearly $2 billion flowing across the U.S.-Canadian border daily, Canada is the U.S.'s largest trading partner.