Press Release - House Passes Three Immigration Measures

HOUSE PASSES THREE IMMIGRATION MEASURES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren voted today in support of three separate pieces of legislation to crack down on illegal immigration. All three bills passed the House and are awaiting consideration in the Senate.

"Illegal immigration is a matter of national and economic security that must be taken seriously," Boren said. "It is important all law enforcement officials - not just federal immigration agents - have the authority to address this problem."

H.R. 4830, the Border Tunnel Prevention Act, allows punishment of up to 20 years in prison for individuals who construct or finance the construction of a tunnel or passage into the U.S., or use a tunnel to smuggle aliens or goods into the country. Earlier this year a tunnel near San Diego was discovered that authorities believe was used to smuggle people and drugs into the country.

H.R. 6094, the Community Protection Act, allows for expedited deportation for non-citizen gang members. H.R. 6095, the Immigration Law Enforcement Act, clarifies that state and local law enforcement officers have the authority to enforce federal immigration law.

"These bills strengthen our existing laws and provide law enforcement the tools needed to deal with new issues they face in combating illegal immigration," Boren said. "I have talked with Oklahoma law enforcement officials about the connection between illegal immigration and drug crime. I hope this legislation will help in addressing the problem."

http://www.house.gov/list/press/ok02_boren/20060921three.html