Lowey Statement on President's Executive Action on Immigration

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland), the Ranking Member on the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement today on the President’s executive action on immigration:

“Too many people who are Americans in every way but one have lived and worked in our communities for years facing fear of deportation. Action must be taken to ensure that qualified individuals who pose no risk to public safety should have the opportunity to receive work permits that allow them to contribute to our economy, pay taxes, and avoid fear of deportation as long as they are good standing members of our society.

“While far from an ideal solution to a complex and longstanding challenge, this executive order is a good start. I call on Republican leaders to channel their opposition to the President’s action into engagement. Rather than threatening a repeat of last year’s disastrous government shutdown, hold a vote on comprehensive immigration reform, which was written and passed by the Senate on a bipartisan basis last year.”