Dianne Feinstein: “I am offering legislation with Senator Kyl as original cosponsor, a legislation which provides full reimbursement to…”

“I am offering legislation with Senator Kyl as original cosponsor, a legislation which provides full reimbursement to state and local counties for costs incurred for emergency medical services and ambulatory services provided to undocumented aliens injured during a pursuit by border patrol or under the custody of federal, state, or local authorities. This legislation: Authorizes full reimbursement for emergency medical costs, including ambulatory services for illegal aliens who are injured during illegal crossings at land and sea ports, or during a pursuit by border patrol, or while in custody of federal, state, or local authorities; Authorizes up to $18 million per year for the next 4 years from a separate account under the Attorney General to reimburse states and localities for emergency medical services provided to illegal aliens. Requires the Attorney General to submit a written report to Senate and House Judiciary Committees on the policy and practice, including custody practice, of the border patrol by March 1, 1998. Requires annual report by the Attorney General to Senate and House Judiciary and Appropriations Committees on the implementation of this bill. INS reports show that in FY96, 1.65 million illegal aliens were apprehended, of which 97% or 1.6 million apprehensions were made at the Southwest Border.”