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"This bill recognizes the need to bolster our border security capabilities by authorizing more funding for Border Patrol agents, utilizing physical barriers and state-of-the-art technologies, and promoting international policies that will help deter illegal immigration and protect valid claims of asylum."

The main provisions of the Border Security and Terrorism Prevention Act include:

-- Tighter control of borders and ports (enhanced Border Patrol operations, including military support; physical barriers, state-of-the-art technology; more port-of-entry inspectors);

-- Elimination of the "catch and release" practice, including mandatory detention of aliens who cross illegally;

-- Streamlining operations within the Homeland Security Department's border security agencies;

-- Promoting both international and domestic policies that will deter further illegal entry into the United States.

"The so-called 'catch and release' practice in particular represents a very real danger to our homeland security efforts," King said.

"This year alone, approximately 115,000 illegal aliens from countries other than Mexico have been apprehended by the Border Patrol, only to be released due to a lack of detention space. That includes foreign nationals from all over the globe, including the Middle East. This practice must come to an end," King said.

The House Committee on Homeland Security will begin marking up H.R. 4312 on Wednesday.

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