On the recordJune 15, 2016
I would point out that I disagree with the gentleman from Arizona. There is a provision that allows the MAVNI program to be used by the Secretary of Defense, and it has notwithstanding language: Notwithstanding paragraph, the Secretary concerned may authorize the enlistment of a person if that Secretary determines that such enlistment is vital to the national interest. That has long been used in the MAVNI program. It has just never been used under another President to circumvent our immigration laws and fast track people not just into the military, but into citizenship. If a DACA person is able to get into the military under this MAVNI program or any other program, they don't have to go the green card route with a lawful permanent residence card. They can go directly on a fast track to citizenship. It is a way of circumventing our immigration laws. The President has been using it. And this amendment would block at least that provision of it, so I urge its adoption. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. King). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the ayes appeared to have it.
