Press Release
Rep. Cuellar Statement on House Republican Immigration Reform Standards
Washington,
January 31, 2014
Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX28) released the following statement on the announcement of House Republican standards for immigration reform: “I am encouraged to see the House Republican Leadership outline a meaningful step towards reforming our country’s broken immigration system,” said Congressman Cuellar. “Immigration reform is about jobs and the economy, national security, and fostering entrepreneurship. These are principles both Republicans and Democrats can agree are vitally important to the full economic recovery of our country. Yesterday’s announcement was significant in two ways – first, it is positive to see the Republican Leadership formally outline some principles for immigration reform. Second, the House GOP Leadership announced support for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers as well as legalization for the 11-12 million undocumented immigrations currently living in the shadows of illegal status. I support a comprehensive approach to reform that includes a path to earned citizenship for the 11-12 million undocumented immigrants living in this country. But if we want to come together to pass the reform that our country needs, we must meet somewhere in the middle, as I have advocated publically since summer of 2013. I hope that House Republicans will be similarly flexible and open to compromise as they draft legislation for the Floor. As a Congressman representing a community along the U.S.-Mexico border, and a lifelong resident of the same area, I hope that my colleagues will take the time to approach the border with the nuanced analysis it deserves. We need more resources at the border, but we must take a smart approach and not throw money at the region without assessing its needs. I have long advocated for smart, 21st Century approach that provides smart border security while not interfering with trade and commerce with one of our largest trading partners. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues across the aisle to pass legislation that will achieve our common goals.” |