Washington, D.C. – Center for American Progress Vice President for Immigration Policy Angela Maria Kelley issued the following statement today reacting to House Republicans upcoming unveiling of immigration principles:
We are encouraged that House Republicans finally appear ready to chart a path forward on immigration reform. The cost of inaction has been significant. The heart-breaking toll on hard-working families and communities continues to mount with 1,000 immigrants being deported every day. Our economy likewise continues to suffer from the dysfunctional status quo.
Enabling undocumented workers to earn legal status and citizenship rather than live in fear of deportation will provide a powerful economic boost to the economy while leveling the playing field for workers and employers. Since Senate bill S. 744 passed in June 2013, the country has missed out on more than $8 billion in potential revenue. So while we understand that coalescing around principles is a necessary and important first step for the House, we are focusing on the next step: the introduction of concrete legislation that will help keep families together while growing our economy.
It doesn’t matter if Congress passes a comprehensive bill with several sections or several bills that add up to a workable solution. The key is that the legislation must deal with all of the issues—especially the fate of the 11 million undocumented immigrants living in America—in a way that produces a comprehensive solution and enough votes to make it a law.
Additional resources on immigration:
To speak with an expert, contact Crystal Patterson at [email protected] or 202.478.6350.
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