(by CSPOA on Jan 22, 2015) The “Secure Our Borders First Act”, HR399, passed the House Homeland Security Committee late last night on a partisan vote 18-12. Committee chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX) had this to say:

“The number one provision in the Constitution is to provide for the common defense of our country, and our borders are a national security concern,” said McCaul. “The Committee on Homeland Security does not have jurisdiction over interior enforcement, so the “Secure Our Borders First” bill deals solely with the problem at our southern, northern, and maritime borders – a problem that has plagued this country for 25 years.”

“Our border must be dealt with through regular order and in a step-by-step approach – not through any type of comprehensive immigration reform. We must stop the bleeding at the border. The bill matches resources to needs, putting fencing where fencing is needed and technology where technology is needed. My constituents in my home district and my home state of Texas spoke loud and clear. They want the border secured.”

“Tonight, we passed the bill out of committee, with numerous Republican amendments that I believe makes the bill stronger and more effective. For example, with Rep. Roger’s amendment, we will finally complete the 700 miles of the Secure Fence Act. The Democrats have indicated they will do anything to make sure this bill does not pass, which tells me that this is exactly the bill that our border needs. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the House to amend and pass this bill.”

The Secure Our Borders First Act requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to achieve 100% operational control of high traffic areas of the southwest border in two years – and the entire southwest border in five years – and establishes a commission to independently verify that the border is secure. The legislation enforces penalties on DHS political appointees if the administration does not meet the terms of the bill. (Source: House DHS Committee website) The Senate version of the bill was also introduced this week. Sheriff Richard Mack (Ret.) CSPOA President, said “It’s about time.”

“The Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association is pleased with this action. We met on Dec. 10th with members of Congress in Washington DC to demand action to secure the border, and we urge swift passage of the bill in both the House and Senate”, said Rick Dalton, CSPOA Executive VP and Legislative Liaison. “And we hope President Obama will resist the partisan urge to veto and instead do the right thing for the protection of all Americans”, Dalton said.

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