Velazquez on Funding for Department of Homeland Security

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez made the following remarks today regarding the need to pass a “clean” funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security. House Republicans have been holding up such a measure in an attempt to pass legislation that would block President Obama’s Executive Actions on immigration.

“Mr. Speaker, when we come to Congress all of us take an oath to protect our nation, our homeland. Today, we risk undermining that solemn promise due to partisan objections to the President’s immigration actions. Even if my colleagues disagree with the President’s immigration actions, the answer is not to hold hostage funding for homeland security.

“Senate Republicans recognize this. The Senate voted 98 to 2 yesterday to begin consideration of a clean funding bill. Yet, the House continues dawdling as we lurch toward a homeland security shutdown.

“This is unacceptable. Whether it is training first responders, building new firehouses or paying TSA screeners, some things should be above politics. We cannot afford to suspend funding for our Homeland Security.

“The time for political games is over. The House Republican Leadership should move a clean Homeland Security funding bill – like that being considered in the Senate -- immediately. I yield back.”

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