>Congressman Scott Garrett Applauds Today’s Signature into Law of Secure Fence Act as Critical Measure to Keeping our Country Safe and Secure
Washington, D.C.-Congressman Scott Garrett applauded the President’s signature today of the Secure Fence Act of 2006, H.R. 6061, which authorizes the construction of a 700-mile fence at critical points along our southwest border and authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to maintain operational control of our border and ports through enhanced Border Patrol operations, physical barriers, and state-of-the-art technology.
“This Act, which was signed into law today, takes a significant step towards keeping our country even more safe and secure,” said Garrett. “By authorizing the construction of a fence and authorizing DHS to maintain operational control of our border and ports-providing them with cutting-edge equipment and technology-we are acting to stay ahead of terrorism, keeping control of what comes into our homeland.”
Initial funding in the amount of $1.2 billion for the construction of this fence and additional border security measures–such as vehicle barriers, tactical infrastructure, and technology–was approved as a part of the Fiscal Year 07 Appropriations bill and additional funding will follow. Congressman Garrett voted in favor of Secure Fence Act in September of this year.
Additionally, Congressman Garrett voted for the Homeland Security Appropriations Act, which was also signed into law, providing amongst other things, $2.27 billion for border patrol funding to help add an additional 1,500 new Border Patrol agents for a total of 14,800 agents; $5.2 billion for the Secure Border Initiative, helping to provide tools and personnel needed to prevent terrorists and other criminals from crossing our border; and $4.2 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Audrey C. Jones
Press Secretary
U.S. Rep. E. Scott Garrett (NJ-5)
1318 Longworth Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 226-0443 Direct
(202) 593-1399 Cell
>Sorry to hear Garrett was rained out — was looking forward to meeting him!!