Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Homeland Security Appropriations bill that authorizes funds for the programs that fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  Rep. Cuellar worked with his colleagues to make sure that vital provisions were included in the bill that provide for local input into plans for border fence and infrastructure projects, flexibility in implementing these projects, and consideration of the environmental impact on communities.  By working the House floor, Cuellar was successful in preserving this important language.  An amendment was offered to strike this language but was defeated by a vote of 233-190.

“I have been a staunch advocate for these measures and thank Chairman David Price of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security for accepting my proposed language.  Chairman Price showed great leadership on this provision.  I would also like to recognize Congressman Ciro Rodriguez for working with me on this,” said Cuellar.

On May 7, 2007, Rep. Cuellar sent a letter to Chairman Price to follow up on previous conversations about how Congress can best secure our borders.  The letter stressed the importance of allowing the DHS to employ latitude in how it secures the borders, including a combination of fencing, technology and staffing.  The letter included recommended language to be included in the bill that passed the floor today. 

“I have been working closely with both local and federal officials to make sure that we are including local input during every step of improving our border security.  I want to thank our border mayors, county judges, local officials and the private sector for participating in the dialogue with the federal officials.  They have helped shape the language included in the Homeland Security Appropriations bill,” said Cuellar.

“It is absolutely vital that we implement efficient projects that are tailored for local considerations.  I am proud that my colleagues have recognized this need and included my suggested language in the Homeland Security Appropriations bill,” Cuellar continued.

Cuellar succeeded in including the input of officials and citizens from the Texas-Mexico border in the Homeland Security Appropriations bill.  By facilitating meetings for local representatives with high-ranking federal officials over the course of several weeks, Rep. Cuellar ascertained local concerns and worked with his colleagues in Washington to create policy that will be tailored to each community.

“I believe that we must allow the DHS to have latitude to determine the most cost-effective means of securing our borders while minimizing the impact on the environment and local communities.  By working in Congress to develop this system, we can secure our borders in an efficient and effective way,” said Cuellar.

The bill appropriates $37.4 billion and includes important provisions dealing with border security procedures and projects.

“I was proud to vote for this bill today.  I applaud my colleagues and Chairman David Price on passing this effective piece of legislation,” said Cuellar.

Key components of the bill include:

• Border Security.  The bill appropriates $8.8 billion for Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which will support the hiring of 3,000 additional border patrol agents, resulting in a total of 17,819 by the end of FY 2008.

• Firefighter Assistance Grants.  The bill provides $570 million for grants to firefighters, which is $23 million above FY 2007 and $270 million above the President’s request.

• SAFER Grants.  The bill provides $230 million for Staffing for the Staffing Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, which helps fund hiring and training of additional firefighters.  This is an increase of $115 million above FY 2007.

• Improved Benefits for CBP Officers.  The measure requires CBP to offer its officers “law enforcement officer” status under the retirement system, making them eligible for more generous benefits and provides $50 million for this transition.

• Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The measure directly appropriates a net $4.2 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  ICE will also be required to obtain monthly updates from the nation’s correctional facilities on the number of incarcerated immigrants who are subject to deportation.

“This piece of legislation will increase border security and help keep our citizens safe.  My constituents’ safety and securing our borders in an efficient matter are important issues to me,” said Cuellar. 

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip.
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