William F. Smith: “today we are considering appropriations for The Department of Homeland Security, which was created with one mission in…”

“today we are considering appropriations for The Department of Homeland Security, which was created with one mission in mind--to help protect the country. Unfortunately, it seems that not all of the agencies within the Department take that mission as seriously as they should. The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services, CIS, is responsible for processing petitions for immigration benefits. This includes petitions for green cards, visa issuance, asylum status, and marriage benefits. The adjudication process must be thorough and secure to ensure that those who want to harm America are not allowed to enter the country. Monday's Washington Times included a disturbing article about a Congressional briefing by an internal CIS investigator that highlighted alleged corruption and dysfunctional practices at the Agency. If true, these practices would comprise a threat to national security. According to the article, the allegations include CIS employees exchanging immigration benefits for sex, being influenced by foreign governments to provide benefits, and not having access to the appropriate systems to do background checks on those applying for benefits. When an agency receives Federal funding it is obligated to do everything in its power to complete its job. The Department of Homeland Security needs to better protect our country from those who would do us harm.”