New Hayworth Bill Tough on Border Tunnels

Bill would criminalize cross-border tunnels and impose stiff penalties for those using, financing, or constructing them WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman J.D. Hayworth (R-AZ) has introduced legislation to criminalize the construction and financing of cross-border tunnels and impose stiff penalties on those who use tunnels to smuggle drugs, aliens, weapons of mass destruction, or terrorists. Similar legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Diane Feinstein (D-CA) and Jon Kyl (R-AZ). "The recent discovery of the 2400 foot long tunnel between Mexico and California shows just how sophisticated these tunnels have become," said Congressman Hayworth. "It was equipped with lights, drainage, and ventilation, and was wide and tall enough to easily walk through. Although drug smugglers used this tunnel, it is not hard to imagine it could have been used for a more sinister purposeto smuggle a dangerous weapon into this country. This is another potential border vulnerability that we simply cannot ignore." According to the Department of Homeland Security, some 40 tunnels have been discovered since 2001, ranging from the very sophisticated to the rudimentary. Since there is some question whether current federal law criminalizes the construction or use of such a tunnel, Hayworth felt it was necessary to join with his two Senate colleagues in proposing clear and unambiguous language to that effect. "With the tough new penalties included in this legislation, potential tunnelers will think twice before attempting to dig their way across our border," said Hayworth. "We were lucky to discover the latest tunnel when we did. Now we must take steps to prevent new tunnels from being built. This bill is a good first step."