Statement From Congressman Dan Donovan on Supporting Immigration Reform Bills

“Our immigration system is broken. For too long, Washington has failed to act to overhaul and enforce our laws – leading to porous borders, unchecked illegal immigration, and backwards policies. But today the House has a historic opportunity to fix the current challenges we face.

“I fully support both bills that are expected to be brought to the floor today, which will secure our borders, fund the wall, curb illegal entries, better support our frontline defenders, and enact a merit-based system.  These pieces of legislation deliver the strong solutions President Trump has called for, and I look forward to voting to repair our system.

“I am also proud that through my advocacy, critical homeland security and anti-terror grants at risk because of New York’s harmful sanctuary cities policies will no longer be impacted. The brave NYPD officers and first responders who rely on these funds to thwart attacks and keep New Yorkers safe shouldn’t be penalized because of Mayor de Blasio’s dangerous policies. Some work is still needed to protect other important programs, but I am in touch with leadership to amend these problems as the bills move forward.

“Congress has the chance to pass the most significant border security and immigration reform legislation in years, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote ‘yes.’ The American people deserve a working, lawful, and effective system.”

-- Congressman Dan Donovan represents Staten Island and South Brooklyn in Congress. He serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. He is New York City’s only Republican representative.

###