Darrell Issa: “often the most absurd example is what forces us to look, and look more carefully, at flaws in our legislation. This one…”

“often the most absurd example is what forces us to look, and look more carefully, at flaws in our legislation. This one is a good example. Chris Frecking is a citizen of the United States who has been employed at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Francisco for the last 16 years. Mr. Frecking was born in the Philippines to an American father in 1968 and was sworn in as a U.S. citizen in 1990. But there lies the rub. He was sworn in as an American citizen. He came here from the Philippines after he turned 18 unaware that he should register with the Selective Service after there was in fact no draft or likelihood of anyone being called if they did. He failed to do so. He did try, though, when he discovered that this was a lifetime requirement in 1994. But, in fact, this was not allowed. This is a gentleman who has been a good citizen, who in fact fell through the cracks. This legislation today after careful scrutiny in harmony with many organizations but most importantly at the leadership of the director of the Selective Service, in fact, makes it possible for us to continue to urge men to register for the Selective Service and treats them fairly if, through no fault of their own, they fail to do so. I urge the swift passage of this bill. It is good legislation. It corrects a minor flaw. I join with my colleague from California in saying that sometimes the best legislation is small and bipartisan but makes a big difference in people's lives.”