News from California's Border Congressman

Border & Immigration


Headlines

 

May 18, 2011  

Congressman Filner Supports Reuniting Families Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner recently joined his colleagues as an original co-sponsor of legislation that would protect family unity by reducing immigration visa backlogs and promoting humane and timely reunification of families.

"There are millions of legal immigrant families that have been kept apart for years due to our inefficient visa system," said Congressman Filner. "It is time to fix our broken system and stop this inhumane treatment."

The Reuniting Families Act (H.R. 1796) would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by increasing the number of visas allocated to children, spouses and other immediate relatives of U.S. citizens; reduce lengthy wait times; increase limits for employment-based immigrant visas for high-skilled workers; exempt Filipino veterans from per country visa limitations; and includes "permanent partner" within the scope of the bill which would eliminate discrimination in immigration law against same-sex permanent partners and their families.

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April 12, 2011  

Congressman Filner Urges Secretary LaHood to Withdraw Mexican Trucks Proposal

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has issued the details of a proposed, phased long-haul, cross-border trucking program between the United States and Mexico. The new program would authorize both Mexican and United States long-haul carriers to engage in cross-border operations.

Congressman Filner, who has long opposed allowing Mexican trucks access to U.S. roads, has contacted Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood urging the proposal be withdrawn.

"Despite assurances from the Department of Transportation, I am not convinced that appropriate checks are in place to ensure the safety of Mexican trucks that are coming across the border," said Congressman Filner.

Since January, Congressman Filner has been pushing for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee to hold hearings on the proposal. To date, no hearings have been scheduled.

The public will have 30 days to submit comments on this proposal. After the close of the comment period, USDOT will formally respond to comments and take those comments into account as it develops and implements a final program.

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March 10, 2011  

Congressman Filner Introduces Bill to Reimburse Border Community First Responders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner announced today he has recently introduced the Save Our Border Communities Act, H.R. 717. This bill would reimburse police, firefighters and other first responders for services associated with U.S. Ports-of-Entry.

"The federal government has not reimbursed border communities for border-related incidents and the financial drain on local police, firefighters and other first responders is becoming increasingly unbearable," said Congressman Filner. "In these times of economic hardship, our local communities cannot afford to do the federal government's job."

In Imperial County, California, the already strained local police can no longer respond to most calls from the U.S.-Mexico Port of Entry. One local police department has stated that they cannot afford to process and transport the numerous individuals with out-of-county misdemeanor warrants to the local jail.

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February 15, 2011  

Congressman Filner Opposes Republican Cuts to California Border Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Earlier today, Congressman Bob Filner spoke on the House floor about his outrage that the Republican's proposed FY2011 continuing resolution (H.R. 1) would eliminate substantial funds for border projects in California.

As written, H.R. 1 would remove $894 million from the General Services Administration (GSA) construction and acquisition budget, eliminating all funds for those projects in FY2011. The bill would also cut $133.8 million from the GSA repair and alterations budget.

"These drastic cuts will jeopardize construction and modernization of the Calexico, Otay Mesa, and San Ysidro land ports-of-entry," said Congressman Filner. "Not only will California lose jobs associated with the construction, but our economy will suffer from the loss of efficiency at the border."

The GSA was originally supposed to begin construction on the Calexico Land Port-of-Entry (LPOE) in 2011. Construction of the new Otay Mesa LPOE and the San Ysidro Phase II expansion project were scheduled to begin in 2012.

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January 7, 2011  

Congressman Filner to Co-Chair Congressional Border Caucus

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner has been selected to co-chair the Congressional Border Caucus.

“I’m honored that my colleagues selected me to serve as co-chair of the Congressional Border Caucus,” said Congressman Filner. “As the Congressman with the entire California/Mexico border in my district, I will use this post to push for funding for programs aimed at bolstering the economies on both sides of the border, keeping our borders safe and decreasing congestion at ports of entry.”

The Congressional Border Caucus, which was founded in 2006, is a coalition of Members of Congress who are dedicated to addressing the issues of border communities and to educate other Members on border issues.

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Headlines

 

December 9, 2010  

Congressman Bob Filner applauds passage of DREAM Act in House, urges Senate vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner applauded the passage of the DREAM Act in the House of Representatives last night. The legislation would give hundreds of thousands of young people brought to our country without a choice the chance to earn legal status and contribute to our country by serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or pursuing a college education.

"This is a major step forward to making the DREAM Act a reality," said Congressman Filner. "It would offer students across this country who had no choice in coming here a path to citizenship if they attend college or serve in the military. This is truly a common sense bill that treats people with the humanity that often gets lost in the immigration system."

The bill now goes to the Senate where earlier today they voted to pull the measure from consideration.

"I’m disappointed in the Senate’s move today to not vote on the DREAM Act," said Congressman Filner. "It’s imperative that they get this passed by the end of the year."

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October 4, 2010  

Congressman Filner announces $20.2 Million Recovery Grant Award for Interchange in Otay Mesa!

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner is pleased to announce that the Department of Treasury has approved a grant for construction work on the final segment of the I-805/SR-905 interchange near Otay Mesa Port-of-Entry. Awarded under the TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) program, the grant will pay for the completion of access to the Otay Mesa Port-of-Entry’s intermodal connector.

"This project will help improve the flow of goods between the U.S. and Mexico and the region’s air quality by lessening congestion and truck idling at the border," said Congressman Filner. "We need to provide the necessary resources to increase the safety and efficiency of one of America’s largest ports-of-entry."

Construction to the interchange will divert international freight shipping to the SR-905 and away from the heavily congested Otay Mesa Road. When completed in 2014, the interchange near the Otay Mesa Port-of-Entry will improve safety, accommodate more freight shipments, and reduce emissions from commercial trucks waiting in traffic to unload cargo. The TIGER program, part of the Recovery Act, is designed to promote innovative, multi-modal and multi-jurisdictional transportation projects that provide significant economic and environmental benefits in our communities.

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August 4, 2010  

Congressman Filner: Another major step towards a smart border

CHULA VISTA, CA - Congressman Bob Filner applauded a decision today by the State Department to issue a Presidential permit allowing the construction and operation of a San Diego-Tijuana Airport Cross Border Facility (CBF).

"This is another major step towards a smart border that stimulates our economy and keeps our communities safe," said Congressman Filner. "This will have a big impact in easing the flow of secure travel and trade."

The plan includes an enclosed pedestrian bridge across the U.S.-Mexico border linking a passenger facility in San Diego with the commercial passenger airport in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. According to the State Department, the sponsor of the project, the binational investment group Otay-Tijuana Venture L.L.C. hopes to begin construction in 2011.

Congressman Filner represents California’s 51st District which encompasses southern San Diego County and all of Imperial County, including the entire California/Mexico border.

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July 29, 2010  

Congressman Filner applauds passage of emergency border security funds

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Last night, U.S. Congressman Bob Filner voted to secure emergency funding for border security. H.R. 5875, the 2010 Emergency Border Security Supplemental Appropriations Bill provides a total of $701 million to help protect the Southwest Border by strengthening border security and enforcement efforts.

"We need a smart border that facilitates commerce, protects our communities and makes our ports of entry efficient," said Congressman Filner. "This money will help us create an effective, efficient and secure border."

The bill, among other things, includes $208.4 million for 1,200 additional Border Patrol agents deployed between the ports of entry along the Southwest Border; $136 million to maintain current Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer staffing levels and add 500 additional officers at ports of entry along the Southwest Border; $50 million for Operation Stonegarden grants to support local law enforcement activities on the border; $30 million for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities directed at reducing the threat of narcotics smuggling and associated violence; and, $10 million for a surge of workforce integrity investigations designed to prevent corruption among CBP officers and agents.

The $701 million in funding is offset by $201 million in rescissions from programs that no longer require the funding; therefore the total cost of the -bill is equal to the President’s request for emergency border security funding.

Congressman Filner represents California’s 51st District which encompasses southern San Diego County and all of Imperial County, including the entire California/Mexico border.

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June 2, 2010  

Congressman Filner: San Diego, Imperial Valley to receive over $11.5 million for border security

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner announced today that San Diego and Imperial counties have been allocated $11,770,272 for border security measures from the Department of Homeland Security under the Operation Stonegarden program. San Diego County is set to receive $8,844,033 and $2,926,239 will go to Imperial County.

"We need a border that is effective, efficient and secure," said Congressman Filner. "This money will go a long way to move us closer to that goal."

Operation Stonegarden was created to enhance cooperation and coordination among Federal, state, territorial, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies in a joint mission to secure the United States borders.

"My goal is to have a smart border that facilitates commerce, protects our communities and makes our ports of entry efficient," said Congressman Filner.

Congress passed the funding for Operation Stonegarden as part of the Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2010.

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June 2, 2010  

Congressman Filner urges Major League Baseball to move 2011 All-Star Game from Arizona

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Bob Filner announced his co-sponsorship of H. Res. 1370, a resolution that urges Major League Baseball to move the site of the 2011 All-Star Game from Phoenix, Arizona to another location, due to the state’s recently passed immigration law.

"With Major League Baseball’s philosophy of tolerance and diversity, I strongly urge them to move the site of the 2011 All-Star Game from Phoenix, Arizona to another location" said Filner. "I ask that Major League Baseball take a strong stand against Arizona’s hurtful and unfair law!"

Recently, several Major League Baseball players along with the Major League Baseball Players Association have condemned Arizona’s law.

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May 11, 2010  

State Senator asks President for Federal Immigration Reform

Senator Tom Harman wants President Obama to use federal law to hold down the immigrant count in California.

On Monday, May 10, Harman called on Obama to serve Californians by passing "comprehensive immigration reform." In a letter sent to the President, he disputed the state's responsibility for immigrant costs. "In 2009, California spent over $1 billion incarcerating almost 30,000 undocumented immigrants in state prison."

The Senator, however, does not want a closed fence. "On its worst day, the United States is still the beacon of hope and destination of choice for oppressed people throughout the world," he said.

The letter is not a mere request. The Senator made the position official by proposing senate resolution SCR 108. The resolution states the Congress and the President have a responsibility to "develop a fair, purposeful immigration reform solution that controls the country's borders and the costs to state and local governments."

Immigration costs are still a fundamental concern for Governor Schwarzenegger. He gives the bill to the federal government. In January, he said, "my budget includes the $900 million in federal funds to cover the costs of incarcerating undocumented immigrants."

The Governor's potential successor, Steve Poizner, on Monday, while standing on a pedestrian bridge overlooking the San Ysidro border crossing between the U.S. and Mexico, said, he is willing to take away the public benefits and employment that motivate immigrants. He supports Arizona's immigration law.

Arizona Governor Jan Brewer led those states unwilling to wait for federal reform to guard their borders. In passing SB 1070, she took strong positions against both illegal immigration and racial profiling. The reaction was so strong, she asked for a technical amendment, HB 2162, to remove doubts about the equality of treatment under the law. On April 30, the word "solely" was taken out of the phrase in the statute, Section 11-1051(B), instructing officers they can not "solely consider race, color or national origin" when looking into the immigration status of a suspicious person. Her position is still the same.

California Senator Darrell Steinberg remains concerned about potential racial profiling. His letter on April 27 asking Governor Schwarzenegger to cut California's economic ties with Arizona states his strong opposition. He does not want any states to pass laws like the Arizona statute. "The regulation of immigration is exclusively the province of the federal government, and the Arizona law threatens to undermine basic civil liberties guaranteed to all Americans – regardless of immigration status."

Bob Filner wants federal authorities to save Arizona residents from racial profiling before federal reform. "The U.S. Justice Department should immediately seek an injunction to stop the Arizona law from being enforced," Filner stated last month at a public gathering held at University of San Diego's Peace and Justice Institute.

On Cinco de Mayo, the President told the public comprehensive immigration reform is a high priority for legislative work this year. He says he knows he needs Republicans to vote for his law.

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Headlines

 

October 21, 2009  

Congressman Bob Filner Announces $2.8 Million Federal Grant to Improve Border Safety!

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Filner is pleased to announce a $2.8 million Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) federal grant for the San Diego based Institute for Public Strategies. The BJA grant category is "Comprehensive Data Driven Approaches to Preventing and Reducing Violent Crime" through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive Grant Program.

"These resources will allow law enforcement to improve strategic relationships within border communities to prevent crime, drug abuse, and violence," said Congressman Filner. "The Institute for Public Strategies has consistently demonstrated knowledge, skill, and professionalism while implementing innovative solutions to critical challenges."

The BJA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice. Its mission is to support crime prevention initiatives that strengthen the nation’s criminal justice system by providing leadership, services, and funding to communities throughout the United States.

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July 17, 2009  

Filner Announces Recovery Act Funding for Border Security Efforts

Congressman Bob Filner is pleased to announce the release of $7,864,601 in Recovery Act funds from the U.S. Justice Department’s Southwest Border Strategy program. The City of Chula Vista will receive $2,864,605 to support task force efforts to gather intelligence related to cross-border violence; San Diego County will receive $4,999,996 to create a team of uniformed officers to patrol the border for drug smuggling and criminal activity.

"This funding will help our law enforcement officials investigate and prosecute the southbound smuggling of guns and cash that fuel the violence of the cartels," said Congressman Filner. "Collaboration with security teams in Mexico is also a critical piece of the solution to this bi-national crisis."

The Southwest Border Strategy program is part of more than $4 billion in Department of Justice Recovery Act funds available to assist state, local and tribal law enforcement to improve the criminal justice system in the United States while creating good, local jobs.

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June 25, 2009  

Congressman Filner Votes to Keep America Safe, Secure Borders

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bob Filner has voted to invest in top priority homeland security programs that will keep Americans safe. The Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act emphasizes programs that secure our borders, ports and airports, and help train local first responders and emergency personnel. To maintain fiscal responsibility, the bill eliminates 17 programs and cuts funding for another 40 programs.

"The security of this nation is priority number one," said Rep. Filner. "This legislation provides critical funding to secure our borders, train our local first responders and safeguard the American people."

The legislation will provide first responders with the equipment and training they need to keep communities safe. It includes $3.55 billion in grants for local municipalities to protect critical infrastructure in high-threat areas, help local fire departments and upgrade central command facilities.

"Our local firefighters, police officers and emergency medical personnel are our first line of defense in an emergency. They must have the best training and equipment to keep our communities safe," said Rep. Filner. "The grants and programs in this bill give our first responders the tools and resources they need to protect us in case of an emergency."

The bill also boosts our efforts to increase security along our borders. There are additional investments to combat the violence, drug smuggling and weapons smuggling along the U.S. – Mexico border. In addition, the bill invests in improving aviation security, port security and transit security. Among the many important programs, these funds will be used to purchase and install the latest explosive detection systems at airports nationwide and develop and deploy systems to screen cargo containers for weapons and nuclear materials.

"This legislation prepares our nation for 21st century security challenges," said Rep. Filner. "It allows us to better prevent threats and attacks, prepare and plan for emergencies and invest in our response capacities to safeguard our citizens."

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April 20, 2009  

Congressman Filner Supports the DREAM Act

Congressman Bob Filner proudly announces his co-sponsorship of the American DREAM Act, H.R. 1751. This bi-partisan bill would facilitate access to post-secondary educational opportunities for immigrant students in the United States who currently face barriers in pursuing college educations. Under the DREAM Act, our hardworking immigrant youth would be eligible for a conditional path to citizenship as they pursue higher education or military service.

"This legislation would give our immigrant students the ability to further their educations and be contributing members of society," said Congressman Filner. "I will work with my colleagues to support comprehensive immigration legislation that allows young people to continue their educations and service to our country!"

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April 29, 2009  

Congressman Filner Reappointed a Member of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group

Congressman Bob Filner has been re-appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group, which fosters a constructive working relationship between the two countries on several key issues.

"As California’s Border Congressman, I am eager to work with this diplomatic group to advance our countries’ bilateral relationship," said Congressman Filner. "With the spike in border violence and the widespread impact of the swine flu, the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group is crucial to address these and other issues with a pro-active, collaborative spirit."

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March 2, 2009  

Congressman Filner Introduces the Save Our Border Communities Act!

Congressman Bob Filner has introduced the Save Our Border Communities Act, H.R. 670, which would reimburse police, firefighters and other first responders for services associated with U.S. Ports of Entry.

"The federal government has not reimbursed border towns for border-related incidents and the drain on local emergency services is increasingly unbearable," said Filner. "Especially in these tough economic times, local agencies and organizations can’t afford to foot the bill for the federal government."

Last year, the Calexico Fire Chief announced that the department would no longer answer calls from the Port of Entry. An estimated 25 to 30 percent of the calls received by the local Fire Department were border-related. Imperial County, California spent $5.5 million in 2006 for law enforcement and criminal justice services, costing each county resident an extra $34.59 per year.

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January 8, 2009  

Filner Calls for Fast Release of Border Security Funds

Congressman Bob Filner has called on the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), R. David Paulison, to release grants awarded but not received by the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office and police departments in Brawley, Calexico, El Centro, and Imperial. The grants were awarded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Operation Stonegarden.

"Our local law enforcement agencies play an essential role in securing our borders and making our communities safer," said Congressman Filner. "I asked Paulison to speed up the funding transfer and provide a point of contact to assist with the process. I look forward to his quick response."

The DHS funding, as part of Operation Stonegarden, assists local authorities with operational costs and equipment purchases that contribute to border security. The initiative also provides additional flexibility and allows for innovative, coordinated efforts by local, state, and federal agencies in border areas.

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Headlines

 

December 3, 2008  

Filner Says, "Don’t Build the Wall"

Congressman Bob Filner recently toured border check points and current construction, and encouraged President Bush, President Elect Obama, and his colleagues in Congress to "Save Friendship Park" by stopping construction of the border wall.

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July 7, 2008  

Congressman Filner Meets with Tecate Mayor Eduardo Peñalosa Ávila

Congressman Bob Filner recently met with Mayor Donaldo Eduardo Peñalosa Ávila of Tecate, México to discuss border issues and international relations. Mayor Peñalosa presented Congressman Filner with a Tree of Life in recognition of Filner’s dedication to improving the quality of life for all people.

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June 20, 2008  

Filner Introduces Act to Save Our Border Communities

Congressman Bob Filner recently introduced H.R. 5879, the Save Our Border Communities Act. The bill would reimburse police, firefighters and other first responders for services associated with U.S. Ports of Entry.

"It is the Federal Government’s job to ensure that our borders are safe and secure. We cannot force local police departments to bear the cost," Congressman Filner said. "It’s time Uncle Sam paid the real cost of keeping our nation secure!"

The Calexico Fire Chief recently announced that the department would no longer answer calls from the Port of Entry. An estimated 25 to 30 percent of the calls received by the local Fire Department were border-related. In Imperial County, California spent $5.5 million in 2006 for law enforcement and criminal justice services, costing each county resident an estimated $34.59 per year.

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June 12, 2008  

Congressman Filner Meets with Mexican Officials

Congressman Bob Filner recently met with Mexican officials to discuss border issues and economic progress. Pictured here with the Congressman are (from left): Alejandro Bustamante, Executive Director of Plamex, Inc; Jorge Ramos, Mayor of Tijuana; and Alejandro Monraz, Federal Delegate from the Secretary of the Economy for Baja California.

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April 8, 2008  

Congressman Filner Challenges Environmental Waivers for Border Fence Construction

Congressman Bob Filner joined several Members of Congress, The Defenders of Wildlife, and the Sierra Club in opposing the Department of Homeland Security’s recent waiver of 36 environmental and historic preservation laws to complete the controversial border fence. Congressman Filner filed a notice of intent for an amicus brief to a petition filed by The Defenders of Wildlife and the Sierra Club challenging the constitutionality of the waivers.

"These actions are disgraceful and irresponsible!" Congressman Filner stated. "This sets a terrible precedent. The Federal Government expects all of us to respect and follow our nation’s laws, while the Bush Administration thinks nothing of throwing them out when it’s not in their best interest. These actions jeopardize our environment and our public health."

While the Department of Homeland Security has the legal authority to waive such laws, appeals involving the waiver must be taken directly to the Supreme Court and challenges can only be made on constitutional grounds.

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March 21, 2008  

U.S. & Mexico Collect Unwanted Pesticides in Imperial County and Mexicali

Congressman Bob Filner supports international efforts to clean up potentially dangerous pesticides in Imperial County and Mexicali. This week, environmental agencies from the United States and Mexico will team up to collect obsolete and unwanted pesticides from area growers. Their goal is to eliminate 37,000 pounds of harmful pesticides from local farm communities.

Congressman Filner pointed out, "Exposure to pesticides can be extremely harmful to the health of agricultural workers, and I completely support this effort to clean up farm communities, ensure that our families are not exposed to hazardous materials and spread awareness of potential dangers. I hope that the relationship, which has developed between environmental agencies in the U.S. and Mexico, will pave the way for closer coordination on air and water quality initiatives in the future."

Yesterday, pre-registered growers brought unwanted pesticides to the Allied Waste Facility in Imperial County. Today, pre-registered growers will do the same at a collection site near Mexicali, Mexico. The collected pesticides will be disposed of at a licensed hazardous waste facility.

This event is sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Border 2012 program, California’s Department of Pesticide Regulation, Imperial County Agricultural Commissioner, Mexico’s Secretariat for the Environment and Natural Resources, SEMARNAT, and Mexico’s health agency ISESALUD.

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Headlines

 

December 26, 2007  

Congressman Bob Filner was recently presented with a plaque in recognition of his introduction of H.R. 3270

Congressman Bob Filner was recently presented with a plaque in recognition of his introduction of H.R. 3270, Visitors Interested in Strengthening America Act (VISA Act), which would grant humanitarian visa waivers to children and their parents coming across the border for medical appointments or for educational or cultural events. Pictured here with the Congressman are (from left) Gloria Maria Loza Galvan, Assembly Speaker, State of Baja California; Dr. Carlos O. Maya Quevedo, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons; and Jose Luis Jaral Moreno, Binational Committee for Immigrant Human Rights.

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November 9, 2007  

Congressman Filner Says "Pay Up!" to the Department of Homeland Security

Congressman Bob Filner has introduced the Pay for All Your Undocumented Procedures (PAY UP!) Act, H.R. 4021, to help local hospitals, physicians and ambulance providers obtain reimbursement from the Department of Homeland Security

"The cost of uncompensated emergency care for undocumented immigrants is putting a growing burden on the health care system in our communities," Congressman Filner said. "As Congress continues to debate the best approach to reforming our immigration system, we must act now to ensure that health care providers are not forced into bankruptcy and that U.S. citizens continue to have access to high quality health care."

The PAY UP! Act would force the federal government to reimburse emergency ambulance and medical services providers for the cost of uncompensated care and services for undocumented persons aided by the Border Patrol or other federal immigration officials.

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October 5, 2007  

House Passes Legislation to Create the Southwest Regional Border Authority

Congressman Filner is pleased to announce that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation to create the Southwest Regional Border Authority.

The bill authorizes grants to states, local governments, and public and non-profit organizations for projects to develop transportation, water and wastewater infrastructure, public health, and telecommunications infrastructure. The bill also authorizes grants for projects that stimulate job creation, economic development, entrepreneurship, and business development.

The Southwest Regional Border Authority would be comprised of counties within 150 miles of the U.S./Mexico border, including Imperial and San Diego Counties in Congressman Filner’s district.

"It is critical that the federal government help distressed communities in the border region," said Filner. "The Southwest Regional Border Authority will help create jobs and improve communities in Imperial and San Diego Counties."

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September 3, 2007  

Congressman Filner Says Federal Government Should Help Solve Border Air Pollution!

Congressman Bob Filner recently introduced H.R. 3365, the Foreign Air Impact Regulation (FAIR) Air Act. The FAIR Air Act would stop communities located near international borders from being penalized for not meeting air quality standards due to foreign air sources.

"Our communities should not be penalized for living near international borders. Air pollution does not stop at political boundaries! The federal governments must work together to improve air quality." Congressman Filner said.

The bill would provide these areas, which failed to meet air quality standards due to foreign emissions, with federal help to develop and implement bi-national plans to improve air quality.

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August 15, 2007  

Congressman Filner Wants Humanitarian Visas Restored

Congressman Bob Filner recently introduced H.R. 3270, the Visitors Interested in Strengthening America (VISA) Act. The bill would grant humanitarian visa waivers to children and their parents coming across the border for regular medical appointments or for educational or cultural events. The bill would give Port Directors the discretion to issue humanitarian visa waivers to Mexican children making brief, pre-scheduled visits to the United States for medical, educational or recreational purposes.

This legislation would not affect the number of legal or illegal immigrants living in the United States-the children and accompanying adults visit for one day and then return to their homes. It gives Port Directors the authority to use their discretion and issue waivers to children that pose no security threat to our country.

"Turning away school field trips and kids with doctors' appointments does not give us the secure and efficient border we need," said Congressman Filner. "Port Directors have the experience and discretion necessary to make these judgments, and we should not restrict their ability to do their jobs."

Since September 11, Port Directors have stopped issuing these visa waivers. As a result, children have been blocked from receiving specialized medical attention, participating in educational exchanges between border schools and taking field trips to tourist sites across the border.

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June 1, 2007  

Congressman Filner Supports Hispanic-Serving Colleges and Universities

Congressman Bob Filner announced his support of House Resolution 451, the Next Generation Hispanic-Serving Institutions Act, introduced by Congressman Ruben Hinojosa in the current, 110th session of Congress.

The legislation will strengthen Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) by establishing a long-overdue competitive grant program to expand graduate degree opportunities at HSIs. Current law provides support for only two-year and four-year institutions, leaving out graduate programs.

"I believe that we must provide graduate educational opportunities for the increasing number of Hispanic students who are interested in further education," said Congressman Filner. "If we do not invest in advanced education and training for this emerging population, we put our nation's economic foundation at risk."

Currently, only 4% of master's degrees are earned by Hispanics, 3% of doctoral degrees, and 5% of first professional degrees. This bill would help to increase the number of under-represented Hispanics in the fields of teaching, science, engineering, medicine and technology that require advanced degrees. The bill has 40 Members of the House as co-sponsors.

"I am working closely with Congressman Hinojosa to bring this bill to the House of Representatives and to pass it as quickly as possible!" said Filner.

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May 25, 2007  

Congressman Filner Announces $412,500 For San Ysidro Health Center

Congressman Bob Filner announced today that the San Ysidro Health Center has received a $412,500 grant from the Department of Health & Human Services.

CEO of the San Ysidro Health Center Ed Martinez said, "This major capital grant will allow our Center to fully equip the 6-chair pediatric dental clinic and expand the service delivery program to approximately 3,000 Latino children living in San Diego's South County. Given the epidemic of early childhood dental problems that has afflicted our Latino community for years, this new capital grant represents a "break-through" development that offers great promise to improving the oral health of our community."

The Mission of the San Ysidro Health Center is to improve the health and well being of the community's traditionally underserved and culturally diverse population.

"With the rising costs of care, these funds are critical and will provide much needed services to children in need. I remain committed to fighting for the funding that is required to improve our children's health," said Congressman Filner.

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June 15, 2007  

Filner Supports R&D Tax Credit

Today, Congressman Bob Filner announced his co-sponsorship of H.R. 2138, legislation that would make the research and development tax credit a permanent part of the U.S. Tax Code and increase the tax credit from 12 percent to 20 percent.

"There is wide-spread agreement in the economic community that the research and development tax credit spurs technological innovation, which is a major driving force of our economy," Filner stated. "The R&D tax credit has served our nation well and should be made a permanent part of our tax code."

Since its enactment in mid-1981, the credit has been extended 12 times and significantly modified five times. H.R. 2138 has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee for consideration.

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