Rep. Cole Votes for Measure to Prevent Terrorist Travel

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole voted today for The Real ID Act that targets terrorist travel within the United States. This legislation, which passed the in the House 261-161, will implement much needed driver's license reforms, close asylum loopholes and strengthen deportation laws.

"The Real ID Act addresses many recommendations from the 9/11 Commission report. For every provision in this legislation there is a reason and an example of a terrorist who abused and took advantage of loopholes in our system," Congressman Cole said.

One of the important components of this legislation is to make certain requirements on driver's licenses so applicants would have to provide proof they are living in the country legally before receiving an ID. Currently eleven states do not require this documentation. The Real ID Act would also require identity documents to expire at the same time as the expiration of lawful entry status.

Another important component of this legislation is strengthening deportation laws by making laws consistent. Under current immigration laws, prohibitions on terrorist-related activities only apply to aliens who are trying to enter the U.S., not to those who are already inside our borders. Therefore, if an alien seeking a visa has been found to participate in a terrorist related activity, he/she is prohibited from entering the U.S. But if an alien is found to have participated in the same terrorist activity while already in the U.S., he/she may not be deportable.

"These are common sense reforms that will help us improve the security of our country. The events of September 11th taught us that we must impose stricter standards that will prevent terrorists from freely traveling throughout our country," Congressman Tom Cole said.

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