Controversy Brews Over Illegal Immigrant Bank Wiring Program

SAN DIEGO -- A local congressman is among the critics of a new program which helps illegal immigrants wire money across the border.

The program, called Directo A Mexico, was launched last September and is sponsored by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

The program allows Mexicans living in the U.S. to transfer cash across the border without a social security number. Officials said 27,000 transfers are made each month.


But San Diego Congressman Brian Bilbray told NBC 7/39 the plan is a threat to national security and does not exclude those who are in the U.S. illegally.

Defenders of the plan told NBC 7/39 there is no evidence linking the program to terrorism.

Participating banks said they meet identification standards set by the Patriot Act.

Some legislators said they plan to take steps to try and put an end to the program.

Another program involving illegal immigrants sparked controversy earlier this month, when some people shredded their credit cards.

It was in protest of a Bank of America plan allowing people without social security numbers to apply for credit cards.

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