Speech #1090098870

My jurisdiction included the Mexican border. Based upon this experience. I have a direct understanding of Americas need for this comprehensive border security legislation. and I am proud to say out of our committee. Mr. Chairman. it was truly bipartisan. The Border Security and Terrorism Prevention Act is a result of the United States grave and perpetual problem with undocumented aliens. An estimated 8 million to 12 million undocumented aliens are here in the United States. Last year alone. over 1 million illegal aliens were apprehended at the border. and the Border Patrol estimates that many more have crossed undetected. In addition. there is evidence to support that al Qaeda would like to exploit our southwest border. and we know that it is vulnerable. In the post9/ll world. these figures no longer represent just an immigration problem. but rather one of national security. Americas borders are being compromised by our inability to identify those who are coming into our country. This commonsense legislation will work to fix this growing problem and will greatly enhance security along our Nations borders. If passed. America will begin to establish operational control of its borders and ports and have a national strategy. thereby ensuring a safer and more secure home for all of us. I am honored to serve on the Homeland Security Committee and to have played a role in the drafting of this important legislation. including the mandatory detention provisions which will end the socalled catch and release policy of undocumented aliens. particularly those from other countries other than Mexico. Unknown OTMs crossing our borders present a dire national security risk. since most of the detained OTMs are immediately released into our streets never to return for their court date. Sadly. the number of OTMs crossing Americas border has tripled over the last 3 years. The second provision that I was proud to have a part in was to reimburse State and local law enforcement agencies for the cost they bear due to the national border security burden. If we have learned anything after 9/11. it is that the Federal Government must work with the State and local law enforcement to prevent terrorism. It is our duty. indeed it is our responsibility as Members of this distinguished body. to do everything in our power to ensure that another 9/11 never occurs in this country again.