Thursday, August 12, 2010

The U.S. Government is Indeed Serious in Strengthening Border Security

The United States of America is indeed widely considered a nation of immigrants. With the continuous admission of numerous people with different races, it is no doubt that the U.S. has become a melting pot for culture and a diversified society. But sadly, with the high number of immigrants who come to the U.S. daily also comes the immigrants who enter illegally. Illegal immigration is a long time problem of America and is just getting worst every year.

The US-Mexico border is such a large border spanning four U.S. states and six Mexican states respectively. It is the most frequently crossed border in the world with an estimated 250 million people crossing the border every year. The problem is, not all crossings are legally documented as some prefer or intend to cross the border illegally. Illegal immigration brings along with it various problems to society. For one, it reduces the value and importance of people who legally achieved their immigration status.

Illegal immigration is also a primary source of crimes and health concerns. Smuggling is a primary concern as illegal drugs can affect the behaviors of society especially for the youth. Another problem is when criminals or drug addicts who illegally enter the U.S. may also commit the same crime and create chaos in any American city. Contagious diseases such as Tuberculosis or Hepatitis may also be carried by illegal immigrants. Since they are not properly screened and documented, they can freely bring along with them any ailment which may affect thousands or even millions of citizens.

Just recently, a border security funding worth over $600 million was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. The funding will help utilize 1,500 new law enforcement agents, purchase several unmanned aerial vehicles or drones which can be used for monitoring the border, establishment of newer forward operating bases and roughly about $14 million for the acquisition of new communications equipment. This is very good news for the American people as the government has finally realized how important it is to secure the border.

Along with this, several anti-illegal immigrations laws have also been established by various U.S. states. With already over 12 million illegal immigrants roaming around mainland U.S., the government’s shift of attention to border security is still somewhat late. Nevertheless, toughening up the border security will significantly reduce illegal crossings and may also significantly reduce crime rates in every American city. It will also prevent any form of human trafficking which is already very rampant nowadays.

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