On the recordJanuary 25, 2012
I rise very much in support of the Ultralight Aircraft Smuggling Prevention Act of 2012. It is crucially important in two respects: It is important in and of itself. It's clear we need to act. Every year, hundreds of these aircraft are flown across our borders. They are carrying drugs. Smugglers favor them because they are hard to detect, they are inexpensive, and they can often avoid radar detection. The problem is that under current law, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, and the prosecutors don't have the authority to charge the users, these offenders, with the existing statute, so they can't seek the higher penalties or lower the burden of proof. This bill--and this is the second significance--was introduced by Representative Gabby Giffords, and it would close this loophole. So I think for all of us, colleagues and friends, this is a special moment. This legislation was characteristic of the devotion, the dedication, and the hard work of Representative Giffords, representing so ably the people of her district, the people of her State, and the people of our entire Nation. Gabby Giffords has been a spectacular star in the congressional galaxy. And we say, as friends, with love and affection, we know that that star will continue to shine brightly, and it will inspire us all.…
