Bilbray Statement on President's Budget Proposal

BILBRAY STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT'S BUDGET PROPOSAL

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) released the following statement today after the President Bush released his FY 2008 budget proposal:

Regarding the President's goal to balance the budget:

"I am happy to see the President renew his commitment to balance the budget without raising taxes on the American people. Congress must now exercise some spending restraint and fiscal discipline. We must continue to implement pro-growth policies to bolster economic growth and job creation."

Regarding the President's call to increase funding for border security:

"I strongly support President Bush's proposal to increase funding for border security. Our borders have become a magnet for drug trafficking, human smuggling and gang violence that has spilled over into our neighborhoods and communities. The men and woman charged with our security need more resources and more manpower. The President's budget would include more funds for additional border patrol agents, new technology that will help monitor border activity and new fencing."

Regarding funding levels for the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP):

"The SCAAP program provides essential federal funds to reimburse state and local governments for the costs associated with detaining illegal immigrants. These funds help ensure that dangerous criminals are removed from our country at the termination of their sentences or detention periods. I am hopeful that Congress can work to ensure that the SCAAP program will be fully funded in FY 2008."

http://www.house.gov/list/press/ca50_bilbray/02052008.html