Fencing Measures Advance Border Security, But Work Remains
 photo by James Tourtellotte We are nearing the end of year in which we've had a lengthy national debate on how to best secure our international borders. The porous nature of the U.S. borders with Mexico and Canada is undoubtedly a security risk. As a Senator from a border state, I recognize that legitimate interaction with our neighbors in Mexico is important to New Mexico for many reasons. At the same time, I know that illegal activities like unauthorized crossings and narcotics trafficking ultimately affect the quality of life in our state.
I believe Congress has made significant headway in the past several years to provide the personnel and equipment needed to get better control over our borders. Securing our borders will not be cheap and it will not happen instantly, but progress is being made to stem the illegal flow of people and illegal contraband.
During the 109th Congress, we have taken many actions to improve our nation's border security. Just this fall, I voted to approve two such border security measures: The Secure Fence Act of 2006 (HR.6061) and the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for FY2007 (HR.5441).
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