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.

“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.  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.

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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