Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced several key additions to legislation authorizing the Department of Homeland Security for Fiscal Year 2008.  Congressman Cuellar’s additions will ensure the creation of a Border Communities Liaison Officer in the Department of Homeland Security’s Policy Office, mandate an assessment to significantly reduce wait times at the border and give priority to on-site training for Southwest Border Patrol agents.

The first provision that Congressman Cuellar was successful in adding to the authorization legislation will create a direct line of communication between elected officials and business leaders from border communities and policymakers at the Department of Homeland Security in Washington, D.C. 

“Before there is policy change regarding border practices, the voice of the community must be heard in Washington.  This is why the creation of a Border Community Liaison  in the Homeland Security Department is so important.  We must not enact policy without considering the opinions of the people who will be affected the most,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Cuellar’s second addition calls for an assessment to determine the staffing, infrastructure and technology needs to reduce wait times at the border.  For the first time, the assessment will establish how much money the Department of Homeland Security needs to spend on infrastructure and staffing to reduce wait times at the nation’s borders.  

“It is so vitally imperative that we reduce the wait times at our borders and provide the resources they need to be fully operational.  As a native of the border, I know firsthand how essential it is to reduce wait times at the border and bolster trade and tourism,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Thirdly, Congressman Cuellar’s additions will institute the priority for local Border Patrol training along the Southwest border.  This provision will grant agents training at locations where they will operate, giving them relevant and applicable experience.

The authorization legislation was passed by the Homeland Security Committee and will go to the House floor in May.  Congressman Cuellar’s provisions aim to find a route to improve the outdated border port facilities and resolve staffing issues.

“We must take informed, proactive steps to create a viable and lasting solution to the problems at our nation’s borders.  I am proud that I was able to bring the distinct voice of the citizens of our border communities to Congress and the Homeland Security Committee,” said Congressman 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 Majority Senior Whip.
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