Congressman Cole Votes for Legislation to Secure Borders

WASHINGTON – Congressman Tom Cole voted yesterday for the Secure Fence Act of 2006 (H.R. 6061) that passed in the House, 283-138. The Secure Fence Act is an emergency measure that would mandate operational control of all borders and ports through enhanced Border Patrol operations, physical barriers, and state-of-the-art technology along the southwest border, including reinforced fencing.

"Securing our borders is a necessary first step in changing our nation's immigration policies. While, we want America to remain a welcoming nation, we also need to ensure those that come here do so legally," Congressman Tom Cole said. "Border security is an essential element of national security. The September 11th anniversary this week reminds us of the importance of keeping track of who is going in and out of our country."

The Secure Fence Act of 2006 will harden our nation’s borders to guard against the threat of terrorism and stem the flow of illegal immigration. The Secure Fence Act will:

· Provide for over 700 miles of two-layered reinforced fencing along the southwest border with prioritized placement at critical, highly populated areas and requiring an evaluation of infrastructure needs along the northern border;

· Mandate that DHS achieve and maintain operational control over the entire border through a “virtual fence” that deploys cameras, ground sensors, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and integrated surveillance technology;

· Require DHS to provide all necessary authority to border personnel to disable fleeing vehicles, similar to the authority held by the United States Coast Guard for maritime vessels.

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