We put out a plan and hired a contractor to put up the virtual fencing. This amendment guarantees that that virtual fencing. which involves a lot of electronics and air observation through Predators and the equipment necessary. such as helicopters and vehicles. will enable the people on the ground to apprehend these individuals who come in illegally where the crossing occurs. and it involves the necessary resources and capital investment to accomplish all of that. which is absolutely critical. It has the capital resources in it necessary to get the job done of protecting our borders. and the American people. if this amendment passes. will be able to look at the dollars that have been put into the pipeline. which will accomplish what is the first thing the American people want relative to immigration reform. which is secure borders. I supported the last comprehensive immigration bill. I was one of the few members on our side who voted for that bill. I believe we need to do something in a comprehensive way. But I also recognize the reality of the situation. which is that the American people will not move forward or will not accept movement in the area of comprehensive immigration reform until they are confident we have regained control over our borders. This amendment accomplishes that. In addition. there are a number of authorizing events in here. I recognize that authorizing appropriations is anathema to many of us. As was pointed out eloquently by the Senator from South Carolina. we dont have effective immigration reform. So the vehicle for accomplishing very targeted law enforcement reformand this is law enforcement reformin the area of protecting our borders is going to have to fall to the Appropriations Committee. It has not been unusual for the Appropriations Committee to assume the role of taking on an authorizing event when it is narrow and aimed at an issue of doing something that delivers a better service. and in this instance It is protecting our borders.
Keywords matched
immigration