Congressman Chris Collins is expressing concern regarding President Donald Trump's executive order on border security.
The Representative has sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security John Kelly regarding the expedited implementation of the biometric exit-entry program.
"Western New Yorkers and our economy rely heavily on the timely movement between Canada and the United States via the Peace Bridge," said Congressman Chris Collins. "While keeping our communities safe is my number one priority, I want to ensure that before any agency implements the biometric exit-entry system fully, we examine all possible transportation impacts and take steps to alleviate any disruptions that may be created. Our southern and northern borders have different security issues and I hope those differences are taken into account."
The biometric exit-entry program was requested by the 9/11 commissioner to track individuals traveling in and out of the country.
In the letter, Congressman Collins writes, "I strongly support increased national security measures across our nation and commend President Trump for his swift action. However, I am concerned that an expedited implementation of this system will not take into consideration the differences in security interests at our northern and southern borders."
Collins is urging Secretary Kelly "to carefully consider the wide-spread impacts implementation of a biometric entry-exit system would have on our northern border."
