The importance of controlling the border

The importance of controlling the border

As we head into the final months of this year’s session in Congress we may finally get to have a real discussion about immigration reform. I believe that this kind of legislation is long overdue.

The very first thing we need to do is get control of our borders. Any discussion of plans or changes is dependent upon our ability to control who enters this country. We have taken steps in recent months to boost security along both of our borders. It is not enough and we still have more to do.

Failure to secure our borders has two serious consequences. The first is that we have no idea who or what is entering our country. In the age of terrorism it is vital to our national security that no one enters this country without our knowledge.

We cannot control what terrorists do or where terrorists go once they enter the country. We can control whether or not they get into the country.

The second serious consequence is that any illegal alien deported or stopped at the border can simply walk back into the country. Any policy or program would be rendered ineffective because we cannot keep people from reentering the country immediately.

There is no doubt that this country is great because of immigration, not in spite of it. However failure to control both legal and illegal immigration means that America is rolling the dice when it comes to our security. I look forward to debating a common sense, manageable immigration plan.

Graves votes to end gun lawsuits; House bill stops frivolous lawsuits

U.S. Congressman Sam Graves voted this week to end frivolous lawsuits against gun makers. S. 397 The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act protects the firearms industry from lawsuits that arise from the unlawful acts of criminals who misuse their product.

“It is common sense legislation that holds people responsible for their actions,” said Graves. “It prevents a few state courts from suing the entire industry and protects our right to bear arms in this country.”

There are currently 33 states that have enacted statues blocking this type of litigation. The law does not exempt gun manufacturers from lawsuits. Instead suits must focus on a defective product, rather than the product’s user.

“Most gun owners are law abiding citizens,” said Graves. “These irresponsible lawsuits seriously threaten the supply of guns and ammunition available for hunting, self-defense, collecting, competitive or recreational shooting, and other lawful activities, and it is time to put a stop to them.”

S. 397 passed the Senate by 65-31 vote this summer. It will be sent to the President who has indicated he will sign the bill.