Louie Gohmert: “As read, this would transfer $35.956 million into an account under the bill that specifies, ``shall be for National…”

“As read, this would transfer $35.956 million into an account under the bill that specifies, ``shall be for National Guard counterdrug program.'' We have spoken with people on the border. They know the problems they are having. They need equipment. This amount would allow eight UH-72 helicopters to help with drug interdiction on the border. It is not like there are not enough helicopters to go around. There are 100 National Guard helicopters. This would only be utilizing eight of them, putting them in a place where they could be used on the border to help with the problem. Mr. Chairman, right now, with so many of our ICE agents and so many of our Border Patrol engaged, as ICE agents said yesterday, in changing diapers instead of being involved in interdicting, as they should be, they need this equipment. This would be National Guard equipment that would allow them to participate in stopping the drugs that are flowing. It is very apparent, from what is going on, that we even have drug cartels that are taking advantage of the situation. As ICE agents have explained, they are using this time--with all of the attention toward the children and the humanitarian crisis on the border--to step up their game in getting drugs into the United States. According to the figures from CBO and from the figures we have gotten from the committee, this will not create an increase in outlays and should be in order in that regard.…”