The gentleman from North Dakota was here talking about what was happening in his State. I suggest for our colleagues to please take a look at the aftermath of what having open borders is doing to our country. When we look at the significance of not watching our borders, not guarding our borders, not paying attention to our borders, and totally ignoring the fact that these things really exist as opposed to, No, move on, there is nothing to see here, this legislation provides an increase in funding for the Customs and Border Protection, which will allow them to more effectively do their job. This bill addresses the concerns of the often overlooked northern border. A lot of people say: I don't know why you are concerned about the northern border. I say: Well, here is a little insight. It is 5,525 miles. It is the longest border between two countries in the world. It is virtually unwatched. That is not the fault of the Customs and Border Protection people. They are overworked, underpaid, and very much underappreciated. In fiscal year 2022, U.S. Border Patrol agents had 2,238 encounters at the northern border. In fiscal year 2023, that number more than quadrupled to 10,021 encounters. Through the first 7 months of fiscal year 2024, they have already encountered 9,460 individuals. As the summer months continue, that number will continue to skyrocket. If Members can understand that statement, coming in the northern border during winter is not a good idea.…
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May I inquire as to the time remaining. The CHAIR. The gentleman from Pennsylvania has 1 minute remaining.
I want to take a moment also to thank the Regulatory Relief Coalition because they have been working hand in hand with us trying to contact as many members as they can. And today is an example of when we work together, what we can get…





