PREFILED    JAN 07 2020

REFERENCE TITLE: border patrol

State of Arizona House of Representatives Fifty-fourth Legislature Second Regular Session 2020

HCR 2011

Introduced by Representative Griffin

 

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

 

commending the Agents of the united states border patrol.

 

 

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

 

Whereas, the southern border consists of 1,993 miles of varied terrain, including deserts, rugged mountainous areas, forests and coastal areas; and

Whereas, officially established in 1924 by an act of Congress in response to increasing illegal immigration, the United States Border Patrol has primary responsibility for securing the border between ports of entry; and

Whereas, Border Patrol agents patrol international land borders and waterways to detect and prevent the illegal trafficking of people, narcotics and contraband into the United States; and

Whereas, the southern border of the United States is experiencing unprecedented numbers of individuals attempting to enter the country illegally; and

Whereas, in June 2019, over 100,000 individuals were apprehended at the southern border, which is an increase of more than 140% as compared to June 2018; and

Whereas, the Border Patrol establishes and maintains partnerships with local, state, federal, tribal and international law enforcement partners, as well as local ranchers and other private citizens who own much of the land along the southwest border; and

Whereas, Border Patrol agents work in dynamic environments with multiple and varied threats that are constantly changing and evolving; and

Whereas, the Border Patrol protects the United States against terrorists and instruments of terror; and

Whereas, created in 2003, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducts transnational criminal investigations to identify and interdict myriad smuggling and cross-border illegal activity.  The work of ICE is critical to enforcing immigration law against people who present a threat to national security, are a danger to public safety or undermine the integrity of the immigration system; and

Whereas, demonstrating courage and valor in protecting our nation, Border Patrol agents serve the American people with vigilance, integrity and professionalism.

Therefore

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Arizona, the Senate concurring:

1.  That the Members of the Legislature commend the courage, dedication and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Border Patrol and recognize the vital role they play in safeguarding our state and nation.

2.  That the Secretary of State of the State of Arizona transmit copies of this Resolution to the President of the United States and each Member of Congress from the State of Arizona.