Knowing of your interest in immigration issues, I wanted to make you aware of recent actions taken by the House of Representatives in this area.

Without question, one of the most serious problems facing the United States is the rising tide of illegal immigration. H.R. 4437, the Border Security Act by Re. James Sensenbrenner, is but the first step in overhauling our nation's immigration policies and implementing genuine, comprehensive reform -- with no amnesty program. While I realize that not all immigration issues such as birthright citizenship were addressed in the bill, the legislation will produce real results in reducing the numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. HR 4437 passed the House on December 16, 2005 -- with my strong support -- by a vote of 239 to 182. Highlights of the legislation include the following:

*The bill institutes an employment eligibility verification system in which employers will check the Social Security numbers and alien identification numbers (provided by employees) against Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) records, to weed out fraudulent numbers and ensure that their employees are not working in the U.S. illegally.

*The bill would greatly increase criminal penalties for alien smuggling through such devices as establishing mandatory minimum prison sentences. These provisions were recommended by a panel of border-area U.S. Attorneys to make it easier to deport smugglers and illegal entrants.

*Provisions would stiffen penalties for aliens who re-enter the United States after having been removed.

*The legislation would make aggravated felons (crimes of violence) inadmissible and would bar refugees and those seeking asylum with aggravated felony convictions from receiving green cards.

*Provisions in the bill would authorize and reimburse local sheriffs in the 29 counties along the southern border to enforce the immigration laws and transfer illegal aliens to federal custody. It also specifically reimburses those sheriffs for costs associated with detaining illegal aliens whom they arrest, until they are able to hand them over to federal authorities. This provision deems aliens in sheriffs’ custody to be in federal custody once determined to be in an unlawful status.

*Bars aliens who are potential terrorists or security risks from becoming U.S. citizens.

*Would make multiple DUI offenses a deportable offense for all aliens.

In addition, H.R. 4437 ends the practice known as "catch and release." This year alone, 115,000 aliens from countries other than Mexico have been apprehended and released due to a lack of detention space. The legislation requires mandatory detention for all illegal immigrants who are apprehended at U.S. land borders attempting to cross illegally, by Oct. 1, 2006. This detention requires that all illegal aliens remain in custody until removal from the United States. In the meantime, illegal aliens must post a bond of at least $5,000.

This legislation is a valuable and effective tool in our nation's struggle to secure and contain our borders. I was proud to support the bill and I hope that the Senate will consider and pass the legislation in the near future.

If I can be of any further assistance regarding this or any other matter, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.
With warmest regards,
I am,

Me thinks someone is looking for votes