[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 123 (Thursday, September 13, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  REAUTHORIZING CERTAIN VISA PROGRAMS

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                               speech of

                            HON. SAM JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 11, 2012

  Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 3245, 
which reauthorizes the E-Verify Program for three years. E-Verify is an 
important tool for employers who want to help ensure they are employing 
legal workers. I believe that there are a few changes that would make 
E-Verify even more effective and user friendly than it already is, that 
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can make without 
being required to do so statutorily.
  Prevention of identity theft in E-Verify is important and USCIS has 
been taking steps aimed at doing so. For instance, they have created an 
E-Verify photo match tool for certain individuals so that an employer 
can match a DHS database photo to the employee standing in front of 
them. I applaud the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for taking 
this step and others, and also urge USCIS to fully explore other 
available identity authentication approaches through pilot programs.
  I also support DHS providing employers with a seamless integration of 
an official, electronic I-9 into E-Verify. The goal of an all-
electronic system, instead of a paper-based I-9, was included in E-
Verify legislation authored by Chairman Smith. Combining E-Verify and 
the I-9 together will be a strong inducement for employers to join E-
Verify.
  I have discussed these changes by DHS with the Chairman of the 
Judiciary Committee, Lamar Smith, who has expressed his support.

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