Citizenship in America is a privilege, not a right. And while we have been a nation of immigrants from the very beginning, we are also a nation of laws. As Texans and Americans saw in the summer of 2014 with the border surge of illegal immigrants, former President Obama enabled illegal immigration by failing to secure the border and enforce our immigration laws. And of course, worst of all has been former President Obama’s amnesty for illegal immigrants. In response Texas has had – at its own expense – to step up to the plate and secure the border.
In Washington, I have steadfastly supported efforts to secure the border as well as enforce and strengthen immigration laws. Moreover, I have championed several measures to stop illegal immigrants from fleecing the American taxpayer.
Additionally, when it comes to legal immigration, Washington must ensure that it is done with America’s best economic interests in mind. Period.
The bottom line: Texans – and ALL Americans – want, need, and deserve better.
This Congress I have introduced the following bills to help put a stop to illegal immigration:
Refundable Child Tax Credit Eligibility Verification Reform Act (H.R. 2149) This bill would prevent illegal immigrants from getting the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit by requiring individuals to provide work-eligible Social Security numbers when claiming the $1,000 credit. Right now, the IRS doesn’t require a Social Security number, thus allowing illegal immigrants to claim this tax credit.
EITC Eligibility Verification Act (H.R. 3483)
This bill would stop individuals who are not authorized to work in the U.S. from claiming the earned income tax credit (EITC). Specifically, it would require individuals claiming the EITC to provide a work-eligible Social Security number.
Key immigration bills I have supported this Congress include:
The No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (H.R. 3003)
I voted in support of this bill on June 29th when it passed the House by a vote of 228-195. This bill would prohibit any federal, state, or local governments from stopping any government entity, official, or employee from complying with immigration laws or cooperating with federal law enforcement to enforce immigration laws.
Kate’s Law (H.R. 3004)
I voted in support of this bill on June 29th and this bill passed by a vote of 257-167. This bill would prevent any illegal alien who has been found guilty of criminal offenses, or who has been previously deported or denied entry into the U.S., from being able to reenter America.
The Criminal Alien Gang Member Removal Act (H.R. 3697)
I voted in support of this bill on September 14th and it passed the House by a vote of 233 - 175. This would make an illegal immigrant inadmissible or deportable due to their membership in a criminal gang.
