Critical SCAAP Funding Approved by House
Dreier, CA Delegation Secure $400 Million for CA SCAAP Program

July 23, 2003

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve legislation that provides California with $400 million for the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP), which helps states cover the costs of incarcerating illegal aliens who commit crimes on U.S. soil. The Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary (CJSJ) and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2004, H.R. 2799, was approved by the House with bipartisan support 400-21.

"It's the responsibility of the federal government to keep our borders secure, but states often bear a high price if illegal immigrants commit crimes once they cross over," Dreier said. "Providing money for states like California that have high concentrations of illegal immigrants must be a priority for the federal government. I'm very pleased that the request of the entire California delegation was heard, and this vital funding was secured."

Also included in the CJSJ Appropriations bill approved today is important funding for law enforcement. Specifically, it includes $4.64 billion for the Federal Bureau of Investigation which will support almost 2,500 new analysts and agents to improve counter terrorism and counterintelligence efforts. It also includes $2.16 billion for the Drug Enforcement Administration and $3.49 billion for assistance to state and local law enforcement efforts. The appropriations for state and local law enforcement programs will be distributed in the form of grants from the Justice Department.

Dreier noted that this federal funding was necessary to help state and local governments continue critical law enforcement activities. "Law enforcement goes hand in hand with fighting the war against terror," Dreier said. "Each time the Department of Homeland Security raises the terror level, local and state governments have to go on high alert as well. It's important that we provide them with the resources necessary to provide public safety and protect citizens in the event of an attack."

Today's approval represents the first step in the process for this legislation. Once the Senate passes its own version, the two bills will be conferenced and sent to the President for his signature.