Speech #1100051667

Third. many records relevant to a background check are not electronic and/or are not in possession of or otherwise accessible to the Federal Government. suggesting that more than one business day may be required for a thorough check. and a thorough check we must do. This is an important issue with potentially grave consequences for our national security. I have filed an amendment to change this provision so no one would receive any immigration benefits without passing a background check. I would urge my colleagues to support this amendment. In addition. I think the bill should require followup background checks when Z visa holders apply to extend their visa beyond the initial 4 years. As the bill is drafted. it leaves that decision to perform a background check up to the Secretary of Homeland Security. I think we need to be able to have removal proceedings for Ineligible Z visa applicants. Section 601(d) of the bill lays out certain grounds of ineligibility for a Z visa. which include multiple criminal convictions. controlled substance trafficking. trafficking in persons. and even terrorist activity. The very same section also states: Nothing in this paragraph shall require the Secretary to commence removal proceedings against an alien. The obvious question is: Why not? Why should DHS not be required to immediately begin removal proceedings against someone who is ineligible for a Z visa because they are a criminal or a terrorist? I think DHS should be requiredi to begin removal proceedings or at the very least take steps toward removing such people from the country. The two main reasons for providing undocumented immigrants the ability to obtain a Z visa are to separate those who are here with good intentions to work and support their families from those who intend to do us harm. and second. to create a system where people have a legal status. In order to successfully do this. this provision needs to be changed so when an individual is found to be ineligible to remain in the country legally under this program. they are removed. In conclusion. 1 look forward to continuing this debate on this bill on these issues I have identified and others to strengthen this bill.