[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 10891]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     IN OPPOSITION OF REPRESENTATIVE BISHOP'S AMENDMENT--H.R. 2578

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, July 9, 2012

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition of 
Representative Bishop's amendment in H.R. 2578, the Conservation and 
Economic Growth Act.
  This amendment would give the Department of Homeland Security 
unrestrained authority over more than 49 million acres of land 
encompassing major regions heavily populated by Latinos.
   These new ``operational control zones'' would harm communities 
economically, socially, and environmentally.
   DHS would be explicitly exempt from complying with dozens of 
environmental, public health, and safety laws within 100 miles along 
the Mexican and Canadian borders.
   Even Secretary Napolitano and the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol 
indicated that environmental protections do not hinder their ability to 
secure our borders.
   This amendment proves to be unnecessary and a threat to our public 
health.
   Also, it jeopardizes the natural parks and public lands that many 
people use as recreation across our nation.
   I understand our nation faces many challenges, but this is no way to 
enhance border security.
  We must respect the liberty of all Americans, enjoy our natural 
landscape, and ensure every person's right to a healthy life.
  I urge my colleagues to vote against Representative Bishop's 
amendment.

                          ____________________