Rep. Andrews Seeks Sensible Immigration Reform

REP. ANDREWS SEEKS SENSIBLE IMMIGRATION REFORM

Our nation was built on the backs of immigrants. Throughout our history, immigration has helped fuel economic growth and opportunity, and it continues to do so today. That is why I am a strong supporter of immigration reform and am fighting to pass H.R.2330, the Secure America and Orderly Immigration Act. We must bring illegal immigrants out of the shadows, and give them an opportunity to work legally in the U.S.

Congress is poised to make decisions which could mean the difference between illegal immigrants being considered as guest workers or felons facing deportation. I voted against H.R.4437 when it came before the House in December as it would make illegal presence in the U.S. a felony and build 700 miles of fence along the U.S.-Mexico border.

I will continue to oppose any bill that treats our nation's immigrant communities with such contempt. Instead, we must allow employers to hire immigrants under a temporary visa program if they can prove that they are unable to hire American workers for the same job. In order to obtain a work visa, these illegal immigrants would be required to pay a substantial fine, pay any back taxes they owe, and remain employed. In addition illegal immigrants granted work visas would go to the back of the line in the path to citizenship.

By expanding opportunities for people to enter our country legally, we would significantly reduce the amount of human smuggling and protect the rights of those coming to the United States to make better lives for themselves and their families. This fight will not end today. I am determined to pass meaning full immigration reform this year that reflects our shared values and preserves America's place as the land of opportunity.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/hearing/nj01_andrews/3_29_06.html