House Acts to Build Border Fence, Establish, Secure Standards for Identification

HOUSE ACTS TO BUILD BORDER FENCE, ESTBLAISH SECURE STANDARDS FOR IDENTIFICATION

Washington, DC - The House of Representatives, today, by a vote of 261 to 161 passed H.R. 418, the Real ID Act, which will require states to establish that applicants for a drivers' license are lawfully present in the United States. These provisions were dropped from legislation enacted last December addressing the work of the 9/11 Commission.

Congressman Issa, an original cosponsor of the Real ID Act, hailed the House action as decisive and comprehensive action to address a significant national security concern.

"The 9/11 Commission recognized that antiquated immigration laws, relaxed standards for securing IDs, and the possibility that terrorists could seek out weak spots in our border security, like the 3 mile gap in the San Diego border fence known as 'Smugglers' Gulch' puts Americans at risk," said Issa. "This action by the House was the right response to a clear existing threat."

H.R. 418, also clears the way for the completion of the U.S./Mexico Border Fence Near San Diego, establishes strong security standards for the issuance of drivers' licenses - including proof of lawful residence in the U.S., and tightens an asylum system abused by terrorists.

A statement form the Executive Office of President George W. Bush this week expressed strong support for the legislation saying it would, "strengthen the ability of the United States to protect against terrorist entry into and activities within the United States."

The Real ID Act now heads to the Senate, which is widely considered the most difficult hurdle H.R. 418 must clear before it becomes law. Congressman Issa is hopeful that the Senate will approve H.R. 418.

"The fact is, this bill is too important not to pass. Even if some Senators don't like it, we must continue to fight for its passage."

http://www.issa.house.gov/newsroom_press_detail.asp?serial=152&page=newsroom