WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s executive order on immigration:

“President Obama’s executive order will help provide temporary relief to millions of individuals, families and businesses.  The President is using his authority under the law and showing leadership on this critical issue.  I’ve pushed for comprehensive immigration reform since my first day in office in 2007 because we must ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute to society and achieve the American Dream.

Tonight’s announcement comes as no surprise.  More than 500 days have gone by since the Senate passed the bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform bill yet House Republicans refuse to even debate the issue.  In the face of legislative inaction, the President was forced to move our country forward. The President’s executive order is a step in the right direction but it is not enough.  Congress must act to completely and permanently fix our broken immigration system.”

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