Ruppersberger Votes For $82 Billion Supplemental For Iraq and Afghanistan
Supports H2B Visa Provision; Commends Efforts to Improve Border Security

(Washington, D.C.)-  Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) voted for the $82 billion Supplemental Aid package for FY 2005. 93% of these funds or $76 billion will aid military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. H.R. 1268 earmarks $308 million for heavily armored Humvees and $60 million for radio jammers to disrupt attempts by Iraqi insurgents to explode remote controlled bombs and mines. The Supplemental also increases the death benefit for the soldiers' families from $12,000 to $100,000.

"Whether you are for or against the war in Iraq, the fact is we are there now and we must support our troops. Our men and women in uniform are risking their lives in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other places around the world. We must give them the resources they need to get the job done and come home," said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).

In addition, H.R. 1268 includes an amendment that will lift the cap on visas for temporary, seasonal workers. Many Maryland businesses were unable to obtain seasonal help using the H2B Visa Program because the cap was reached before these businesses were allowed to apply for the visas. Several landscaping, seafood, and hotel companies have contacted Congressman Ruppersberger's Office asking for assistance.

"We need a better process of issuing these visas that levels the playing field for all companies employing temporary, seasonal workers. We need to ensure that the H2B Visas are distributed equally to companies who need these legal, documented workers all year, not just at the beginning," said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).

The Supplemental also includes $635 million for additional border security funding. The money will be used to hire 500 additional Border Patrol Agents.

"These additional Border Patrol Agents are critically important to keep our families and our communities safe by preventing terrorists from slipping into our country unnoticed," said Congressman Ruppersberger (D-MD).

Related Bill: H.R. 1268

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