This Week in Washington – Saturday, July 17, 2010
Earlier this week, I signed an amicus curiae, or "friend of the court," brief in defense of Arizona's efforts to enforce federal immigration law.
In May, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other organizations filed a class action lawsuit to prevent implementation of Arizona's immigration law, SB 1070. In its legal challenge, the ACLU argued that Arizona's law unconstitutionally intrudes on the federal government's authority to regulate immigration.
The federal government is responsible for securing our borders. It should be working along side the states to ensure this happens, as is currently the law of the land. But in the absence of federal leadership on the issue, states like Arizona should be able to enforce current immigrations laws.
The amicus curiae addresses the role of Arizona's law in assisting with federal enforcement of immigration laws. It points out that federal law already calls for state and federal cooperation when dealing with immigration enforcement. Therefore, Arizona's efforts do not preempt federal law; they simply build on a pre-existing law enforcement relationship.
I was joined on the brief by U.S. Representatives Dan Burton (IN), Trent Franks (AZ), Wally Herger (CA), Duncan Hunter (CA), Steve King (IA), Doug Lamborn (CO), Cynthia Lummis (WY), Tom McClintock (CA), Gary Miller (CA), Jerry Moran (KS), Sue Myrick (NC), Ted Poe (TX), Denny Rehberg (MT), Dana Rohrabacher (CA), Phil Roe (TN), Mike Simpson (ID), and Lamar Smith (TX).
This Week
On Wednesday, the House passed H.R. 1722, the Telework Improvements Act of 2010. The bill would provide greater ability for executive agency employees to telework when the federal government is shut down due to a natural disaster or, even worse, a terrorist attack on our nation's capital.
On Thursday, the House voted to approve H.R. 5114, Flood Insurance Reform Priorities Act of 2010 by a vote of 329—90, again with my full support. The bill reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program for five years through 2015. Homeowners, renters and other businesses across the country are required to purchase flood insurance coverage through participating insurance agents and companies. The President recently signed into law a temporary extension of the program through September of this year. A long-term reauthorization of this bill will provide homeowners with peace of mind knowing their property is protected in case of a flood.
H.R. 5114 also takes into consideration local investment for the reconstruction or improvement of a flood protection system when determining flood insurance rates, an issue I have previously championed in the House. Those who live in areas protected by a repaired or improved flood protection system might qualify to pay a lower premium. I'm also pleased this legislation phases in the mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements for those who are in a newly designated flood zone. Newly designated areas will not be required to purchase flood insurance for five years after the new map takes effect. It's also important to note that low-income families will be able to pay their premiums in monthly installments instead of all at once.
The House will be in session next week. Have a nice weekend!
Sincerely,
