Congressman Mike Rogers asked Homeland Security officials late last week why a multi-billion dollar, high-tech system of surveillance cameras and technology is still not fulfilling its mission of securing our porous Southwest border with Mexico.

Known as the Secure Border Initiative or SBInet, the system helps guard thousands of miles of rural, unsecured border areas.

“Over four years ago…[Congress] did a similar investigation…and thought surely that couldn’t happen again,” Rogers said in the hearing. “It seems like this is eerily similar to that debacle, but with a lot bigger numbers…….This is not the most sophisticated technology our country has…..[border security] is not rocket science.”

Rogers said he hopes the Department of Homeland Security will redouble its efforts to secure our borders with Mexico and Canada. “The vast majority of America wants our borders secured now, not later. Congress cannot let the Federal government take a pass on its commitment to do so,” he said.

The panel of witnesses included:  Chief David Aguilar, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Mr. Mark Borkowski, Executive Director, Secure Border Initiative, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Mr. Timothy E. Peters, Vice President and General Manager of Global Security Systems, The Boeing Company; Mr. Richard Stana, Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues, Government Accountability Office (GAO).

To see a portion of Rogers’ questioning, go to www.YouTube.com/MikeRogersAL03.

Congressman Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Homeland Security Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response as well as serving on the Armed Services and Agriculture Committees.
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