Real ID Act of 2005
REAL ID ACT OF 2005 -- (House of Representatives - February 10, 2005)
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Mr. ISSA. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 418, the REAL ID Act of 2005. This bill includes provisions that are essential to preventing terrorists and other criminals from obtaining fraudulent identification and provides security at our borders.
Last year, Congress passed legislation based on the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission but failed to address vital national security and homeland security issues. This Legislation addresses theses issues and further secures our Nation in a post 9/11 world.
H.R. 418 requires States to implement new minimum regulations for State drivers' license and identification document security standards that must be met within 3 years. It also establishes a process to enable States to use an existing Department of Transportation communication system to confirm that drivers' licenses presented are genuine and validly issued to the person who is carrying them. The 19 terrorists who attacked America on 9/11 had obtained over 63 valid forms of identification between them to breach our homeland security. Improving document security is necessary to counter threats from foreign terrorism.
This legislation also takes important steps regarding asylum reform. It prevents terrorists and scam artists from abusing our asylum system and gives immigration judges the tools they need to undercut asylum fraud before it happens.
Most importantly, H.R. 418 is critical to the continued construction of the Southwest border fence in San Diego. Despite efforts by the Federal Government and the border patrol, California's Coastal Commission has objected to and stopped the final phase of fence construction. Completion of the fence will reduce the number of illegal crossings, and will allow the Border Patrol to re-deploy manpower and resources to other problem areas in San Diego. Completion of the 3-mile gap in the fence, known as ``Smugglers Gulch,'' would be a strong step toward securing our border.
Mr. Chairman, I made a promise to my constituents to continue to fight for security enhancements to curb illegal immigration and secure our borders. This legislation is essential to national security and I urge my colleagues to vote in support of H.R. 418.
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