Washington, D.C. -  U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson today hailed the passage of three pieces of legislation critical to securing the nation’s borders.

“Our borders are like sieves. These bills take another necessary step in fixing the leaks that have led to a flood of illegal immigration, burdened our institutions and threatened our national security,” Rep. Johnson said. “Any discussion of comprehensive immigration reform or guest worker programs has to take a backseat to closing our borders, and that is the national interest.”

The House passed three border security bills Thursday: The Community Protection Act of 2006 (H.R. 6094), The Immigration Law Enforcement Act of 2006 (H.R. 6095) and the Border Tunnel Prevention Act of 2006 (H.R. 4830).

“My constituents have spoken with virtually one voice on this issue. I, along with most of my colleagues in the House, have heard that voice. I remain hopeful that the Senate and the President will follow suit,” Rep. Johnson said.

Following are the measures passed by the House today:

H.R. 6094, the Community Protection Act of 2006

Detains dangerous aliens who are unable to be deported

Expedites the removal of alien criminals

Detains and Deports alien gang members

H.R. 6095, the Immigration Law Enforcement Act of 2006

Reaffirms the authority of state and local law enforcement to enforce  immigration laws

Increases prosecutions of alien illegals

Imposes “catch & return” instead of “catch & release”

H.R. 4830, the Border Tunnel Prevention Act of 2006

Criminalizes the construction and financing of border tunnels

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