U.S. Representative Ed Royce

Immigration

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Trade, I believe that when it comes to immigration policy, national security should be our main priority. This is why I am focused on a sound border enforcement plan.

I have held hearings to discuss the problem of our porous borders. During a hearing, "Checking Terrorism at the Border," Members heard that terrorists had defrauded America's border security and immigration system, including many since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. One of the witnesses, an individual experienced as a top security official in the immigration field, told Members in frank terms that top immigration officials aren't taking seriously their responsibility to counter terrorism.

In February 2011, during a trip to the US-Mexico border, I had the opportunity to witness the challenges facing our Customs personnel and the Border Patrol. I learned first-hand what resources and tools are necessary to improve operational control of the border. (To view photos from my trip, please click here.) This is why I’ve introduced the Keeping the Pledge on Immigration Act, legislation that incorporates the immigration agenda included in House Republicans’ "A Pledge to America." This legislation, a plan to secure our borders, consists of three components: 1) establish operational control of the border; 2) work with state and local officials to enforce our immigration laws; and 3) strengthen visa security.

Specifically, the bill prohibits the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture from interfering with Border Patrol enforcement activities on federal lands. It will also complete the 700 miles of fencing along the border with Mexico. The bill clarifies state and local law enforcement authority to enforce immigration laws. To stop terrorists like Omar Farouk Abdulmutallab, the Christmas Day bomber, we will require the Department of Homeland Security to review all visa applications at high-risk consular posts and prevent aliens from attempting to avoid deportation after having their visas revoked.

Additionally, I strongly support the Secure America with Verification and Enforcement (SAVE) Act. This bill will secure America's borders, implement mandatory work authorization verification, and reduce illegal immigration through interior enforcement. This legislation provides the tools and resources necessary to enforce our immigration laws.

It requires all employers to verify employee's eligibility to work and sanctions them if they do not do so. It requires mandatory notification of Social Security number mismatches and multiple uses and makes the Department of Homeland Security assess the maximum allowable penalties on employers.

It is imperative that we restore the integrity of our nation's borders, reestablish respect for our immigration laws, and keep America safe.