I have a question about the changes mentioned here:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/2a8dbbfe-30d8-11dd-bc93-000077b07658.html

Click on the link to the govt site here:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html?_flowExecutionKey=_c11356A7C-5A8F-7BE4-ED25-903B8F05A6CB_k44B3126D-EF9C-BBD3-5442-42C8ACB3DD01

Now, does anyone know whether I have to do any of this if I am just a transfer passenger, flying through the US enroute to Canada? My brain is too tired to answer that question (baby eating up all my energy). Maybe the answer to my question is explained on that site, but if so, I can't find it.

thanks in advance.

I just registered my Sambo. The registration is not for your right to enter the US, but the right to get on the plane. Just because you are approved does not give you the right to enter the USA (or so the webpage said).

Given this, I think that you would have to register come January (right now the paper I94 form is still required), as it seems to be a security screen for getting on a plane travelling to the USA, not for immigration.

Plus, if memory serves correct, all people entering the USA (including transfer passengers) need to have valid visas (or be Visa exempt). This caused a problem after 911 because people could no longer transfer through Miami on the way to Central/South America.