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Aumua and House Natural Resources Committee Hold Border Security Oversight Hearing

April 28, 2016

Washington, D.C. –Thursday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata, and the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations conducted a hearing entitled, “The Consequences of Federal Land management Along the U.S. Border to Rural Communities and national Security”. The hearing focused on the challenges to maintaining rural communities and securing the border under federal land management regimes.

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HNROI Subcomm

Congresswoman Aumua Amata questions the witness during Thursday’s Border Security hearing

“Our nation’s security is the number one priority of the United States Congress. It is extremely important we ensure that those agencies that are tasked with keeping our nation’s borders secure, are doing the job to their fullest capabilities,” said Amata. “While I certainly understand that the majority of those crossing the border are good people, simply looking to create a better life for themselves and their families, we must not lose sight of the fact that there are people in this world who would do us harm. “A porous border is detrimental to the security of our citizens, and it is concerning that these agencies may not be fulfilling their duty to the American people,” continued Amata.

As the committee of jurisdiction regarding oversight of the Department of the Interior (DOI), it is the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations duty, to ensure that DOI is not impeding the operations of the Border Patrol. By citing environmental laws intended to protect endangered species, DOI is preventing access to federal lands managed by the department, thereby endangering the citizenry. These actions must be addressed, and the committee will continue to hold those departments accountable.

“I want to than our witnesses for being here today. They are literally on the frontlines of this issue, and the committee appreciates them taking time form their busy schedules to address the committee. I know that by working together, we can help to ensure the security and safety of the American people,” concluded Amata.

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