The border security bill satisfied the Senate on Thursday. Only two Democrats were within the session while the Senate is on its August vacation. The border security bill allocates $ 600 million to hire more agents and buy more equipment to police the U.S./Mexico border. The federal government has been pressured by border states struggling with drug trafficking and illegal immigration to do something about border security.
1,500 border security jobs funded by bill
The border security bill was passed in a special session convened by the Senate Thursday. The bill passed by unanimous consent, a parliamentary term for a voice vote that doesn’t require the return of the entire Senate chamber. Senate Republicans actually agreed to the maneuver. The Associated Press reports the bill funds U.S./Mexico border security jobs for 1,000 new Border Patrol agents, 250 more Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, and 250 more Customs and Border Protection officers. Cash may also be allocated to new communications gear and more flight hours for unmanned surveillance drones. About a third of the money goes to the Justice Department to help agencies such as the FBI, the DEA and also the ATF deal with drug dealers and human traffickers.
United States of America visa program pays for the bill
Both parties hope the election year theatre of the border security bill impresses voters with their border security chops as the Arizona immigration law resonates through the political landscape. The Los Angeles Times reports the $ 600 million price tag of the border security bill could be paid for by substantially boosting fees on businesses that hire foreign workers using U.S visa programs. The package will do little to address the complex issue of illegal immigration, say immigration advocates who denounce it as an election year stunt. When the border is secured a broader debate on immigration reform will ensue, politicians say, that will include a means to achieve citizenship for about 11 million illegal immigrants.
Rare special session, rare results
The Senate convened during its summer getaway for only the second time since the August break was institutionalized in 1970, the Senate Historical Office said. The New York Times reports that Charles E. Schumer of New York and Benjamin L. Cardin of Maryland, both Democrats, were the only senators present. The House and Senate had already passed the bill earlier within the week. However, an overlooked rule in the Senate’s arcane procedures forced a re-vote. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005 was the first and only other time the Senate has convened during summer recess.
Further reading on this topic
Associated Press
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Los Angeles Times
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New York Times
thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com
