sensenbrenner.house.gov

Sensenbrenner
Contact: Raj Bharwani (202) 225-5101


Sensenbrenner Named as Conferee on Intelligence Overhaul and Immigration Reform Bill

Washington, DC, Oct 11 -

Menomonee Falls Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner announced today that Speaker Dennis Hastert has named him as one of eight conferees on HR 10, the Intelligence Overhaul and Immigration Reform Bill, which implements recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission relative to our nation’s security and anti-terrorism efforts.

The House passed this legislation on Friday, October 8, and it has now been referred to a conference committee with the Senate, so that the two bodies can work out differences between their respective versions of the bill.

“HR 10 reflects the work of the 9/11 Commission created by President Bush, which was charged with investigating the events of September 11, and offering solutions to prevent such events from happening again,” said Sensenbrenner.

The legislation contains important provisions to expedite the removal of illegal aliens, and streamline the removal of terrorists and other criminal aliens. HR 10 enhances security around our borders, and reduces opportunities for terrorists to enter and stay in the United States. It increases penalties for supporting, financing, or cooperating with terrorist organizations, and expands laws that prohibit the shipment or use of weapons of mass destruction.

The bill also includes the creation of a National Intelligence Director position, and establishes a National Counterterrorism Center. These are key reforms that will help ensure that the wall of separation dividing intelligence and law enforcement is never again exploited to inflict terrorist attacks upon the United States.

“HR 10 is a significant piece of legislation that takes a serious stand against terrorism,” Sensenbrenner continued. “As one of eight conferees appointed by the Speaker of the House, I look forward to working with my colleagues so that Congress can send President Bush a comprehensive bill that provides our law enforcement and intelligence communities with the tools to better protect Americans from future terrorist attacks.”