Congressman Henry Cuellar today released the following statement on Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano’s establishment of a ‘border czar’ position to oversee federal efforts to secure the southern border:

“Secretary Napolitano’s appointment of a new ‘border czar’ is an important and meaningful step forward that reflects a deep understanding of the challenges facing border communities.

“I called for a new federal authority to coordinate America’s border strategy during last year’s Homeland Security reauthorization process and again during my recent meeting with Secretary Napolitano in Laredo. The Secretary’s action today is a promising step toward uniting the hundreds of state, federal, and local agencies that operate on the southern border into a single, coordinated effort.

“Of course the border czar is only one person, and this job is bigger than anyone can hope to accomplish alone. The need remains for a broader federal agency to coordinate the fight against border violence.

“The Southern Border Security Task Force Act, which I introduced into Congress last month, would authorize $10 million to oversee our border strategy. I look forward to holding hearings in the months ahead to move this legislation and continue the work that Secretary Napolitano advanced today.”

###

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the U.S. House Homeland Security, Agriculture, and Government Oversight & Reform Committees in the 111th Congress. Accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip and member of the Blue Dog Coalition.