U.S. Chamber Applauds Passage of Border Security Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Chamber of Commerce today praised congressional passage of the border security bill as a major step toward a more efficient and secure U.S. border open to legitimate cross-border traffic and urged Congress to fully fund all reform provisions.

"Passage of reforms to help secure our borders against terrorist threats will be one of the most important accomplishments of this Congress," said U.S. Chamber Executive Vice President Bruce Josten. "This comprehensive measure will empower federal agencies to undertake new border security measures while protecting legitimate trade and travel."

The Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act, which received final congressional approval in the House today, authorizes increased funding for the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service to add personnel, improve technology, and streamline internal systems. President George Bush is expected to sign the bill later this week.

"For this overhaul to work, Congress must move quickly to appropriate funds for all provisions," Josten noted. "The border agencies only have until October 2004 to complete most reforms and Congress can't expect them to deliver without money."

The Chamber chairs the Americans for Better Borders coalition, a broad-based group of business and trade associations working to ensure the efficient flow of goods and people across the nation's borders while addressing national security concerns.

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.

# # #

02-86