James Traficant: “Mr. Speaker, let me say as a strong supporter of tough immigration laws that we do not, however, need those type of…”

“Mr. Speaker, let me say as a strong supporter of tough immigration laws that we do not, however, need those type of strong laws and adverse regulations to affect our own American citizens. This bill will not soften our immigration policy. It will lessen the burdensome regulations put on American fishermen and American recreational boaters. It will make it easier to obtain the I-68 form. It will make it available not only in INS offices but through the mail and on the Internet. It would also require the INS to establish a toll-free information number to provide information about the program and how to obtain the forms and where to file those forms. It will further streamline the ability to obtain permits, and the bill would direct the INS to work with State officials to develop alternate procedures as well. Finally, the bill exempts American citizens from obtaining an I-68 form if they are traveling on a boat no more than 65 feet long, on a trip that lasts no longer 72 hours, and they carry a U.S. passport to prove their citizenship. I want to compliment the gentleman from Ohio [Mr. Hoke] for the effort that he has made on this.”