Passport Backlog Reduction Act Of 2007

Floor Speech

PASSPORT BACKLOG REDUCTION ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - July 16, 2007)

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Mr. HINOJOSA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Passport Backlog Reduction Act of 2007, or S. 966.

As I represent a district in south Texas, ensuring a safe and secure border which remains conducive to trade and travel is among my most urgent priorities in Congress. For that reason, I greatly appreciate the work of Senators Schumer and Biden, as well as my colleagues Congressman Capuano and Congresswoman McCarthy, in bringing this legislation forward.

Several months ago, my constituents began reporting to me that they were not receiving the passports they needed for spring and summer travel from the State Department within the Department's own posted timelines. As spring has turned to summer, many Americans have been unable to travel abroad and have missed many business, educational, and vacation opportunities as a result of the State Department's failure to provide them with required travel documents.

This bill will help to ease the backlog of passport applications caused by the State Department's mismanagement by allowing retired workers to voluntarily return to work without jeopardizing their pension eligibility. These volunteers will provide immediate assistance to the thousands of American travelers who have requested their travel documentation in a timely manner and expect the State Department to facilitate their travel plans.

I hope that my colleagues will join me in providing relief to American travelers.

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