It is anticipated that activeduty troop reductions will exceed 37.000 in 1991. We should now be coming to the realization that threats to our sovereignty are happening right here at home. I am speaking of unacceptable numbers of illegal immigrants defying U.S. law and crossing our borders. resulting in significant social and economic costs to the Nation. Worse. illegal immigration often coincides with other criminal behavior. including shipment of illegal drugs. This was recognized in the Presidents national drug control strategy. which highlighted drug smuggling and illegal crossings over the Southwest border as a major concern worthy of increased attention and commitment of resources. Mr. Speaker. my legislation would take into account and address these trends. It would authorize an increase in the number of border patrol agents by 1.000. and it would require that the new positions be filled by former activeduty military personnel who were involuntarily discharged under honorable conditions. Of course. applicable skills and experience would also be necessary. The bill provides that the Attorney General. working with the Defense Secretary. would be responsible for actively recruiting such qualified individuals.
Keywords matched
border patrol illegal immigrants illegal immigration