Crapo: Border Fence Important First Step

Washington, DC â?? Idaho Senator Mike Crapo voted to approve legislation establishing a plan for more fences and other increased security measures along U.S. borders. The measure passed the Senate by a vote of 80 to 19.The Secure Fence Act of 2006 (H.R. 6061) would authorize approximately 700 miles of fencing at certain locations along the U.S. border with Mexico. The legislation would also require the upgrade of physical infrastructure to prevent illegal entries and create more checkpoints, and vehicle barriers.â??The starting point for sound immigration policy is securing our nationâ??s borders,â?? said Crapo. â??Comprehensive immigration reform still needs to be obtained, and securing our nationâ??s borders is an important first step toward getting illegal immigration under control and enabling a workable guest worker program.â??The House of Representatives passed H.R. 6061 on September 14, 2006 by a vote of 283-138 and 1 present. The legislation will now be sent to the President for his signature.