[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 19 (Thursday, February 13, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E251]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           IMMIGRATION REFORM

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                      HON. JAMES A. TRAFICANT, JR.

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 13, 1997

  Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Speaker, in the last Congress, excellent progress 
was made on immigration reform. I was proud to be an active 
participant. However, we did not go far enough. Much more needs to be 
done to stem the ever increasing tide of illegal aliens flowing across 
the U.S.-Mexico border. That's why today I am introducing legislation 
which would authorize the use of Department of Defense personnel to 
assist the U.S. Border Patrol and other Federal law enforcement 
agencies working to stop illegal immigration.
  With current estimates reporting thousands of illegal immigrants 
entering our country each day, Congress has an obligation to make 
available to Federal law enforcement agencies all possible resources in 
securing our borders.
  My bill authorizes the Secretary of Defense to assign Department of 
Defense personnel to assist the Immigration and Naturalization Service 
and the United States Customs Service in patrolling the borders and 
stopping illegal immigration. The bill does not mandate the use of 
troops on our border. It simply authorizes the Pentagon to supply 
troops at the request of the Attorney General or the Secretary of the 
Treasury. In addition, if employed, the troops would only provide 
support to law enforcement. They would have no arrest powers.
  For the last 8 years, the Department of Defense has rapidly and 
dramatically expanded its role in the ``war on drugs.'' Today's 
military is well-equipped to handle law enforcement functions. The 
military's role in combating drug smuggling along our southern border 
is a perfect example. Given the continuing problem we have with illegal 
immigrants, Federal law enforcement officials should be given the 
option of using the military to support their efforts.
  I would urge my colleagues to support my legislation. It is a 
positive step in closing the door on illegal immigration.

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