Gianforte Empowers Law Enforcement Combating Dangerous Transnational Gangs

Statement

Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte voted for a measure this morning to reduce gang violence and crime in the United States. The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act, which passed the House 233 - 175, prevents known alien gang members from entering the United States, expedites their deportation if caught in illegal activity, and exempts gang members from immigration benefits such as asylum.

"Americans need to be assured their communities are safe. It's one of the foremost responsibilities of government," Gianforte said.

"Dangerous transnational gangs like MS-13 want to do us harm and threaten our way of life. They jeopardize the safety and security of our communities," Gianforte said. "They bring with them a scourge of violence, and they make their money in drug and human trafficking."

"The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act provides law enforcement officials with the tools they need to combat these gangs, making our communities safer and more secure," Gianforte said.

According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, violent transnational gangs operating in the United States are made up largely of foreign-born nationals. Criminal alien gangs like MS-13 have grown in the U.S. due to weak immigration laws and lax enforcement. The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act helps keep alien gang members from entering the U.S. and provides for their detention and deportation if they are arrested for suspected gang activity.

The measure also exempts alien gang members from immigration benefits such as asylum and other special programs to ensure resources are dedicated to those around the world in most need of protection.

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