Thompson Statement in Support of Mobile Biometric Identification Program Legislation
(WASHINGTON) - On Tuesday, March 24, 2009, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security submitted the following statement in support of H.R. 1148, which requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a program in the maritime environment for the mobile biometric identification of suspected individuals, including terrorists, to enhance border security.
"I rise in support of H.R. 1148, a bill that will enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s ability to execute its border security mission in the maritime environment.
Specifically, H.R. 1148 seeks to enhance DHS’ ability to harness technology successfully piloted by the Coast Guard and U.S.-VISIT program since November 2006 to identify dangerous people before they enter our shores.
Under this program, biometrics collected from individuals interdicted—at sea— are run, in real time, against our terrorist and criminal databases.
Today, state of-the-art handheld scanners are used by DHS personnel to collect biometric information from individuals encountered at sea.
As of March 3, 2009, DHS has collected biometric information from 2,455 individuals interdicted in the Mona Pass—the 90 mile stretch between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.
Through these checks, nearly 600 people have been found to have outstanding wants and warrants in the U.S.
Federal prosecutors have successfully prosecuted 271 or 45% of the matched individuals.
This program is appropriately targeted to help break the cycle of individuals who are known criminals or criminal suspects being repatriated through U.S. borders, without prosecution.
It is also worth noting that, as considered today, the Secretary of Homeland Security is given wide discretion to come up with the parameters of the maritime biometric program, including a determination as to which DHS components will participate.
Last Congress, nearly identical legislation was passed in House by a vote of 394 to 3, with one Member voting present.
I am committed to working with Secretary Napolitano, Rep. Bilirakis and other key stakeholders to ensure that the language of H.R. 1148 is clarified and strengthened as it moves through the legislative process.
I urge passage of this important homeland security legislation that will help enhance the security of our maritime borders."
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Please contact Dena Graziano or Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978
