WASHINGTON, DEC, 17, 2005 - "Dozens of terrorists, including six of the 9/11 hijackers, were able to move freely throughout our nation because they were provided benefits, such as green cards and work permits, without first getting a complete background check," stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "Although current law requires background checks of alien applicants, the checks do not have to be completed before benefits are handed out. My amendment closes that loophole."
The House last night approved by a vote of 420 to 0 the Stearns' amendment to H.R. 4437, the Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act. Explained Stearns, "My amendment will prohibit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the U.S. Attorney General, and all courts from granting any kind of legal immigration status or benefits to an alien until, at a minimum, the alien's name is first completely checked against a database of criminal records and terrorist watchlists, using the Treasury Enforcement Communications System (TECS) database."
"Each year, people throughout the world immerse themselves in the difficult process of legally immigrating to the United States," said Stearns. "The American way is to follow the law and to take your turn, not to sneak illegally across the border. I support H.R. 4437 so that we can regain control of our borders and remove those who are in our nation illegally. "This year some 115,000 illegal aliens from countries other than Mexico have been apprehended by the Border Patrol, only to be released due to a lack of detention space. H.R. 4437 ends this 'catch-and-release' policy."
H.R. 4437 also combats the hiring of illegals by instituting an employment eligibility verification system; increases penalties for smuggling aliens; authorizes reimbursements for local law enforcement offices enforcing immigration laws and detaining illegals; allows the Department of Homeland Security the continued detention of dangerous aliens, overcoming court orders that released hundreds of dangerous aliens into our communities; streamlines the deportation process; authorizes 1,000 new, full-time point-of-entry inspectors and 1,500 additional K-9 units; and bars aliens who are potential terrorists from becoming U.S. citizens.
For Further Information Please Contact Paul Flusche at 202-225-5744 or Email.
