    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [April 18, 2002]
    [Page 639]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Legislation To Strengthen Border Security
    and Urging Action on Immigration Legislation
    April 18, 2002

        Improving our Nation's border security is vital to protecting
    Americans from future terrorist attacks. I commend the Senate for
    passing legislation that strengthens border security and gives our law
    enforcement officials additional tools to secure our homeland. I look
    forward to Congress sending me this important legislation as soon as
    possible so that I can sign it into law.
        I also continue to urge Congress to act to strengthen families and
    make America more welcoming. Congress should pass a temporary extension
    under 245(i) so that immigrants eligible to become legal residents will
    not be forced to leave the country and their families to have their
    immigration status resolved.

    Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish version
    of this statement.