Gordon votes to beef up border security

U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon voted for legislation that strengthens efforts to secure the borders and improve homeland security.

“This legislation makes border security a top priority and gives first responders the tools and resources they need to do their jobs,” said Gordon.U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon voted for legislation that strengthens efforts to secure the borders and improve homeland security.

“This legislation makes border security a top priority and gives first responders the tools and resources they need to do their jobs,” said Gordon.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved the funding bill for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security today. The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.

The bill would provide funding for border fencing and the hiring of 3,000 additional Border Patrol agents.

“Our borders aren’t as secure as they should be,” said Gordon. “It’s time to get a handle on our broken borders rather than look the other way and allow illegal crossings to continue.”

Gordon voted for an amendment that would further improve border security by boosting Customs and Border Patrol’s fencing, infrastructure and technology efforts. He voted for another amendment that would increase funding for a program that allows state and local law enforcement to receive training and support from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help bridge gaps in enforcement of federal immigration laws.

Both amendments were approved by the House and included in the bill.

In addition to the border security improvements, the bill would:

• Increase funding to protect critical port facilities and infrastructure.

• Improve aviation security by providing funding for new explosive detection systems at airports and funding to double the amount of cargo screened on passenger aircraft.

• Expand support for local law enforcement personnel, firefighters and other first responders.

• Eliminate no-bid contracts to ensure responsible spending by the Homeland Security Department.

“This bill helps to ensure that funds are invested in efforts to secure our nation’s borders and improve homeland security efforts rather than wasted on no-bid contracts,” said Gordon. “The accountability measures in the bill will ensure we protect our communities rather than squander taxpayers’ dollars.”

midsouthnews.com