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Forging immigration reform

By Heath Shuler and Brian Bilbray
March 14, 2008

For too long, the federal government has let the American people down on the issues of border security and illegal immigration.

A blind eye has been turned as millions of people have illegally entered the country and gained employment. Our porous borders are also a severe threat to our national security. Partisan bickering in Washington has not solved these problems; it has only made them worse. We believe that the time has now come for Congress to put aside its attempts for partisan gain, and start doing what is right for our nation.

Without question, addressing illegal immigration is a difficult task. In fact, one Democratic Party leader has labeled immigration the new third rail of American politics, an issue we touch at our own peril. However, as elected leaders we should not ignore this critical issue simply because it is politically difficult.

The American people expect action on the issue of illegal immigration. Last year, the Senate wrote and debated comprehensive immigration reform legislation. Primarily, the Senate bill failed because it would have granted amnesty providing a pathway to citizenship for millions of illegal aliens. Additionally, the Senate's bill was negotiated behind closed doors. When the public learned of this backroom deal, the outcry was overwhelming — Americans inundated the phone lines of their representatives and filled newspaper opinion pages. Ultimately, the bill was defeated.

Since the Senate's bill collapsed, the House has failed to take up any meaningful legislation to address illegal immigration. That is why we joined together to craft the Secure America with Verification and Enforcement (SAVE) Act. The SAVE Act provides a three-pronged approach to curb illegal immigration: enhanced border security, employment verification and dramatically increased enforcement of our nation's existing laws.

However, what's not included in this bill — amnesty — has given it so much widespread appeal. While we are a nation of immigrants, we are also a nation of laws. We should not reward those who come to our country illegally and punish those who abide by the law.

Why could this bill succeed where others have failed? It already has extraordinary bipartisan support. To date, 49 Democrats and 97 Republicans have cosponsored the SAVE Act. It also has the support of a cross-section of organizations like the 9/11 Families for a Secure America, the National Federation of Independent Business, the National Association of Police Organizations, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, agriculture organizations and many others.

Among the SAVE Act's highlights: It will ensure that our borders are secured and our laws are enforced. Our bill calls for 8,000 new border patrol agents over the next four years, and provides incentives to recruit and retain them. The SAVE Act also provides for the acquirement of advanced technologies along the border, including aerial surveillance systems and infrared technology. Additionally, 1,200 new Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are hired to strengthen interior enforcement and provide specialized training and support to local law enforcement officers.

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