Speech #1100018806

You know. the United States is a Nation founded on the rule of law. Those who do not follow the law are held accountable. except when you are an illegal immigrant. We have already learned that a few of our major banks are issuing credit cards to illegal immigrants. but a recent article in the L.A. Times uncovered a program through our own Federal Reserve Bank that makes it easier for illegal entrants to send money back to Mexico. direct to Mexico. A federally sponsored program allows illegal immigrants without a Social Security number to wire money through the Federal system for a fee. What is even more shocking is that the Fed expanded the program that allows anyone. illegal or not. to open accounts at participating banks. This is a big business. We have learned it is 27.000 transfers from illegal immigrants every month. totaling $23 billion a year. all with the help of our Federal Government. We are sending mixed messages. Mr. Speaker. We say we want to stem the tide of illegal immigration. but once again. here we go. We will not only turn a blind eye. we will make It easy for illegal immigrants to send money back to Mexico.