Speech #1140002335

The security of our homeland is one of our highest priorities. This bill provides $39.7 billion for that purpose: to protect our borders. defend against the threats of terrorism. and enforce our Nations laws. Today we will also consider amendments to the bill that will reverse the Presidents declaration of executive amnesty for illegal aliens. One of these amendments would change existing law to prohibit any funding. including fees. from being used to implement the order. As the chairman of the subcommittee has said. there are no appropriations in this bill for the illegal amnesty decreethat is being funded by feesand this amendment would get at that problem. The American people have spoken loud and clear. They want our immigration laws enforced rather than unilaterally changed by executive decree in an unlawful way that undermines our Constitution and the integrity of our laws. I will vote for these amendments because the Presidential amnesty decree grossly exceeds this authority and violates the Constitution. The base legislation before us ensures that our immigration laws are upheld. that our border is fortified. and that the men and women on our front line remain wellequipped and trained. The bill provides $10.7 billion for Customs and Border Protection. That is an increase of $118plus million above last year to support the largest operation force levels in the history of the country and to ensure aroundtheclock border surveillance. Funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. ICE. is also boosted above last year. totaling $5.96 billion. including significant increases to detention bed capacity for both individuals and families. and full funding for EVerify to ensure companies are hiring employees who can legally work in the U.S. In addition. the legislation provides funding to ensure the safety of our skies and our coasts. The Transportation Security Administration is funded at $4.8 billion. targeting funding to passenger security. cargo inspections. and intelligence.