Porter Goss: “once again I am delighted to rise in support of a wide open rule that offers all Members the chance to become involved…”

“once again I am delighted to rise in support of a wide open rule that offers all Members the chance to become involved in this important debate. The issue of crime as it relates to illegal immigration is one of great significance to many Americans, and especially to the people of Florida. The statistics tell the story of how illegal immigration and crime have joined together to wreak havoc in States like Florida. In Florida, we would need to build 4 to 5 more prisons just to house criminal aliens--at an estimated cost of $80 to $120 million. By strengthening the laws providing for prompt deportation of criminal aliens and making penalties more certain for deported aliens who return to this country illegally, we take a big step in helping States--especially border States--cope with the complex challenges and of illegal immigration. Obviously Florida will benefit in the long run by a more efficient system for speeding deportations, but in the meantime, the costs continue to mount as we grapple with the fact that approximately 10 percent of our prison population is made up of illegal aliens. For too long, illegal immigration has been a problem sloughed off onto the States. This is a Federal problem--caused by failures in Federal policies--and it is highly appropriate that the Federal Government step in with solutions. H.R. 668 is just such a step forward.”