Chamber Commends House Vote On Border Security Immigration Reform Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Chamber of Commerce commends the House of Representatives, which last night passed legislation that addresses border security issues and protects the flow of goods and services between countries.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

"This legislation is a reasonable and balanced approach to protecting our national security at our borders, said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president. "The bill recognizes the need for real actions that both improve our physical security as well as the need for continuation of the trade and commerce that flows across our borders daily."

Among other things, the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act (H.R. 3535; S. 1749) increases the funding for U.S. border agencies for personnel and technology investments; mandates data sharing among border, law enforcement and intelligence agencies; requires machine-readable, tamper-resistant visas and travel and entry documents; and recognizes the importance of working with our NAFTA partners to enhance our common security and economic interests.

"Still, it should be noted that the bill has ambitious compliance deadlines," Josten explained. "If it turns out that these deadlines cannot be met, it may be necessary for Congress to reconsider some of the provisions in the legislation."

Josten urged the Senate to quickly to pass companion legislation and pledged the Chamber would work with Congress and the relevant government agencies to ensure adequate funding and effective implementation of this needed security legislation.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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