Tom Price: “I thank Mr. Carter for his leadership on this issue. Mr. Chairman, the purpose of this amendment is to prevent further…”

“I thank Mr. Carter for his leadership on this issue. Mr. Chairman, the purpose of this amendment is to prevent further delay in the construction of border fencing as prescribed in the Secure Fence Act. Last Congress, Republicans responded to public opinion and national need and authorized the creation of more than 700 miles of fence along the southern border. Instead of providing resources for the border fencing and surveillance, however, the majority has crafted a lengthy list of reporting requirements to delay the building of the fence. One requirement would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to wait before taking any border security action that warrants the use of environmental waiver authority. This invites frivolous litigation and inhibits the Department's ability from addressing vulnerabilities. Another requirement would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to solicit local advice and support before constructing infrastructure. This gives communities veto authority over Federal policy to control the border, including some sanctuary cities. The American people are watching Congress and what it is doing on immigration reform. The American people are looking to trust the Federal Government again to live up to its promises and enforce the rule of law.”