Immigration

The first priority in immigration reform must be to secure the borders. The 109th Congress took several steps toward realizing that goal. In the fall of 2006, the Secure Fence Act, which invested over $20 billion in overall border security, was signed into law. The money is currently being used to pay for an increase in the number of agents on the border and increase in overall immigration enforcement, including; the detection of fraudulent visas, and the detention and subsequent removal of illegal aliens - effectively ending the outdated policy of “Catch and Release.” It also provides for construction of over 700 miles of two-layered reinforced fencing along the southwest border, prioritizing placement in critical, highly populated areas. And, as a result of Representative Barrett’s work, an evaluation of infrastructure needs along the northern border is required to be completed.

An active member of the Immigration Reform Caucus, Representative Barrett opposes rewarding those who violate our laws. He put forth his own ideas in the Securing America’s Future through Enforcement Reform Act (SAFER), portions of which were included in different pieces of legislation passed throughout last year. Understanding America has to find a solution to the estimated 8.7 million illegal aliens currently living within our borders, Representative Barrett established an Immigration Advisory Board comprised of citizen living and working in Third District of South Carolina. The advisory board members consult with him on ways to address specific immigration issues effecting the nation and South Carolina.