[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 15 (Monday, February 14, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E226]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          REAL ID ACT OF 2005

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                               speech of

                           HON. JON C. PORTER

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursady, February 10, 2005

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 418) to 
     establish and rapidly implement regulations for State 
     driver's license and identification document security 
     standards, to prevent terrorists from abusing the asylum laws 
     of the United States, to unify terrorism-related grounds for 
     inadmissibility and removal, and to ensure expeditious 
     construction of the San Diego border fence.

  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Chairman, with the passage of H.R. 418, The REAL ID 
Act of 2005, on Thursday, February 10, 2005, we took a much-needed step 
in ensuring that we do not have repeat terrorist attacks similar to 
those witnessed on September 11, 2001. This bill, at a minimal, will 
make certain that individuals who attempt to board planes will have to 
provide proof that they are who they claim to be.
  While I believe that this is a positive, I do remain concerned over 
the usurping of what has historically been a right authorized to the 
States. I will continue to diligently work with the State of Nevada to 
guarantee that there remains limited infringement by the Federal 
Government on their right to legislate.
  Further, Mr. Chairman, I offer my assistance to the State of Nevada 
in securing any grant funding that will be helpful in easing the burden 
that the State may incur during the period that it seeks to comply with 
the law.
   Mr. Chairman, while I appreciate the House's action on this 
important bill, I want to remind my colleagues that it is vital that we 
continue to take a close examination of any piece of legislation that 
comes before our chamber that may infringe on rights guaranteed to the 
States.

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