Speech #990084588

I am extremely dubious of this new program because of its size and the uncertainty of its impact on the economy of the Southwest. As a result of its addition to the bill at this time. I have even greater concern over the fairness and impact of the immigration reform legislation. As a final compromise the Senate agreed. and I supported. a 3year sunset of the Wilson Guest Workers Program. at which time the Congress will be forced to consider its impact. But I think it is still unacceptable. In the long term we must also maintian better control of the border. I am seriously considering a plan to develop a border management agency that will help combat illegal activities along the border. Presently. law enforcement along the border is handled by at least three different Federal agencies: the Customs Bureau. the Immigration and Naturalization Service. and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The border agency would combine many of these functions now performed by these separate agencies. thereby strengthening law enforcement along the border. The border management agency would also address the many other problems. such as water and boundary disputes. air and water quality. and health and sanitation. I know the solution to our immediate immigration problem is a complex one. and although I cannot support the bill before us today I believe that we must not turn our backs on the problem. We must all search for the correct combination that balances the civil liberties of individuals and the interests of all Americans. while still taking into consideration the very real problems of the neighbor on our southern border. Thank you.