GovernmentExecutive.com

A group of House Republicans on Tuesday called on the Homeland Security Department to build 700 miles of double-layered fencing along the border with Mexico, as required under a 2006 law.

Leading the group, Rep. Walter Jones, R-N.C., has introduced legislation that would place such a mandate on the department. Congress removed the requirements in the 2006 law as part of the fiscal 2008 omnibus appropriations bill.

But the Republicans said they are committed to seeing the fencing built. "This to me is a matter of national security," Jones said during a news conference. "We believe sincerely that this issue cannot be delayed."

Homeland Security Secretary Chertoff told reporters Monday that the department plans to have 670 miles of fencing and vehicle barriers constructed along the border by the end of this year.

But that is unacceptable to Republicans like House Homeland Security ranking member Peter King, who introduced the 2006 law. "I'm not satisfied with that answer," King said of Chertoff's remarks. He said the department only plans to build 370 miles of physical fencing, of which a small fraction will be double-layered.

Chertoff also said he believed the border would be secured by 2011. But the secretary said it could be secured sooner if Congress passed comprehensive immigration reform that includes a guest-worker program.

COMMENTS

• Poor Iremember. You need to forget some of these ideas and go learn the true history. The Berlin Wall was used to keep people IN East Germany! Potential escapees were shot; no one was trying to get IN !!!!! Also, the Maginot line failed because it was not long enough. Hitler went around it. The Mex border has ocean at both ends, and we can build it water-to-water, and we should do it today. GS Working Stiff Posted June 18, 2008 7:16 AM
• If fences do not work, how is it that Mexico and illegal migration supporters oppose the fence? The fence in my yard worked well until it was partially blown down and now my children access the neighbor’s yard freely. Whole neighborhoods live behind gates and pay extra for the additional security. Most schoolyards are fenced to keep predators out and kids in the yard. Prisons are fenced and construction sites secure their yards with fence. Fences are not absolute security but they are a deterrent. It does provide an indication to the intruder that he is not free to enter and that he may be treated poorly as a trespasser. Fencing the border is needed because it aids the border guards in securing the border. jlb Posted June 12, 2008 11:18 AM
• How about have work stations at the border and the illegals can access USAjobs and apply for Federal positions. Congress can then have a 2 tier payroll, that reduces our federal wages, besides these people want to work and will soon be the GS 13-15 and SES's in 4-5 years Dan ketter Posted June 12, 2008 11:18 AM