Immigration

There is a broad-based consensus that the U.S. immigration system is broken. The number of foreign-born people residing in the United States is at the highest level in U.S. history and has reached a proportion of the U.S. population—12.6 percent—not seen since the early 20th Century. Of the 38 million foreign-born residents in the United States, approximately one-third are naturalized citizens, one-third are legal permanent residents, and one-third are believed to be unauthorized or illegal residents. Some observers and policy experts maintain that the presence of an estimated 11 million unauthorized residents is evidence of flaws in the legal immigration system as well as failures of immigration control policies and practices.
 
I have many concerns regarding the protection and security of our borders. This is why I supported the FY 2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act [PL 110-161] that provided over $9 million for enhanced customs and border protection. Specifically, this provision will allow for the hiring of an additional 2,200 Border Patrol agents—increasing the total to approximately 20,000. Additionally, this legislation requires the Department of Homeland Security to construct a fence on the U.S.-Mexico border. In 2009, I supported passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Recovery Act (PL 111-5), which included key investments in improving homeland security, including providing $720 million to construct the fence.  
 
Resolving problems associated with illegal immigration also requires enforcing sanctions against employers who hire illegal immigrants. Congress continues to take action to improve both of these policy areas. Recent legislation supports local governments in their efforts to efficiently combat illegal immigration, preventing human smuggling across U.S. borders, requiring employers to conduct employment eligibility verification, and strengthening requirements for affidavits of support for alien immigration.
 
I recognize the need to address security problems that are created by illegal immigration. However, with more than 12 million people here illegally, enforcement alone will not solve the problem. Blanket “amnesty” is not a solution to the problem, but the combination of strong border security, reasonable financial penalties, and a path to legal residency will allow us to regain our territorial sovereignty.
 
In this regard, you may be pleased to know that Congressman Solomon Ortiz (D-TX) has introduced H.R. 4321, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America’s Security and Prosperity (CIR ASAP) Act. I was proud to add my name as a co-sponsor to this bill on May 4, 2010. This legislation will comprehensively reform our immigration laws. It provides a robust mix of tough enforcement of our laws and fairness to taxpayers. Importantly, it strikes a balance between the needs of our industries with national security, and upholds the principles reflected in our nation’s immigration history. Additionally, the legislation sets up a thorough employment verification system.
 
I will work in a bipartisan manner for the passage of reform that balances the needs of our economy with national security and upholds the principles reflected in our nation’s immigration history.

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