Lynn Schenk: “the House will consider an amendment to the crime bill by Congressman Beilenson of Los Angeles, mandating that the…”

“the House will consider an amendment to the crime bill by Congressman Beilenson of Los Angeles, mandating that the Federal Government incarcerate undocumented criminal aliens, or reimburse States and local communities for doing so. This amendment is critical for States such as California, Florida and others and it deserves our support. The State of California estimates that the cost of incarcerating undocumented criminal aliens next year will be $393 million, money that otherwise could be spent on police, prosecutors, and prison space. Immigration is a Federal issue and the incarceration of undocumented criminal aliens is a Federal responsibility. California does not set immigration policy. My area, San Diego County, does not supervise the Border Patrol. And yet, States and local communities pay the price when efforts to secure our borders fail. For far too long, Washington has reneged on its obligation to States such as California and the States suffer the consequences. I urge my colleagues to take responsibility for what truly is a Federal problem and pass the Beilenson amendment.”