Immigration Reform Caucus

Bilbray: Suspect's Release in Mexico 'a huge blunder'

A Republican congressman is accusing the Bush administration of failing to own up to "a huge blunder" that led to the release in Mexico of a man wanted in the death of a U.S. Border Patrol agent.

Forging Immigration Reform

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

Save the SAVE Act

Thanks to the energetic work of Republicans and some sober-minded Democrats, the House may indeed get to vote on immigration reform legislation worthy of the name sometime soon. The bill is the SAVE Act (H.R. 4088), introduced by Rep. Heath Shuler, North Carolina Democrat, which aims to dramatically reduce the number of illegal aliens in the United States through stepped-up enforcement of U.S. immigration laws. Mr. Shuler's bill offers a detailed blueprint for achieving this, which includes increasing the number of border patrol agents and providing incentives to recruit and train them; hiring more Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to strengthen interior enforcement; and hiring more federal judges to hear cases against people who smuggle drugs and humans. (Read today's Op-Ed "Forging immigration reform" by Mr. Shuler and Rep. Brian Bilbray.)

SAVE-ing Immigration Reform

Something unorthodox occurred on Capitol Hill on Tuesday. The House Republican leadership began pushing a “discharge petition” — a procedural maneuver designed to force a floor vote — on a piece of Democratic legislation.

Democrats, Republicans Push Immigration Enforcement Bills

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are pushing bills that crack down on illegal immigration, keeping the issue alive in Congress during a volatile election year.

Reboot the Debate

Rep. Brian Bilbray, R-Carlsbad, believes Congress has a credibility deficit when it comes to combatting illegal immigration. He's right. The politicking of recent years has produced heated rhetoric and snappy sound bites, but no solutions.

GOP Moves to Force Immigration Vote

House Republicans are trying to force action on a Democratic-written immigration enforcement measure, the latest GOP attempt to elevate the volatile issue into an election-year wedge.

GOP Aims to Force Immigration Debate

House Republican leaders will introduce a petition drive today to force Democrats to debate immigration this year, using a Democrat-sponsored bill to box them into taking a stand on employers who hire illegal immigrants.

Immigration Issue a Dilemma for Democrats

A squeeze on temporary visas for summer workers has unleashed a round of jockeying over immigration that could bring new legislation to the House floor, possibly this week.

Multiple GOP Bills Create Another Legislative Front for Immigration Politics

A dozen Republican senators introduced 15 enforcement-oriented immigration bills Wednesday, even as their party embraced a presidential candidate who has supported a more comprehensive overhaul of the system with a less harsh approach toward illegal immigrants.

Broun Scores High on Immigration Stance, Co-Sponsors Related Bills

U.S. Congressman Paul C. Broun, M.D. achieved a perfect score on the Immigration Reduction Report Card issued by Americans for Better Immigration (ABI), a non-profit, non-partisan organization which lobbies Congress for reductions in immigration numbers. Broun's 100 percent score makes him the only member of Congress to have achieved a perfect score for his legislative career. The "subjects" Broun was graded on include Chain Immigration, Visa Lottery, Anchor Baby Citizenship, Border Control, and Interior Enforcement.

GOP Pushes Discharge For Shuler Border Bill

House Republicans are soliciting signatures for a petition that will force a floor vote on an immigration enforcement bill sponsored by Rep. Heath Shuler, D-N.C.

Immigration: New Bills, Old Borders

Immigration reform is raising its head again in Congress, stirring old hopes and fears among Democrats and forcing Republicans to re-evaluate their tactics given the re-emergence of John McCain. 

GOP Senators to Introduce Toughest-Yet Immigration Package

Senate Republicans are set to announce today the hardest-hitting package of immigration enforcement measures seen yet -- one that would require jail time for illegal immigrants caught crossing the border, make it harder for them to open bank accounts and compel them to communicate in English when dealing with federal agencies.

Senate GOP Introduces Slew of Border Security Bills

A group of Senate Republicans Wednesday sought to resurrect the hot-button issue of immigration reform with the introduction of 15 new bills aimed at enhancing the nation’s border security.

Businesses Lobbying to Modify Enforcement-Only Measure

Amid speculation that an enforcement-only immigration bill could obtain enough co-sponsors to force a House floor vote, the business community is lobbying heavily to make sure that such legislation includes language to make it easier to obtain guest-worker visas and employment-based green cards. Industry lobbyists have met with dozens of congressional offices over the last several weeks playing defense against an enforcement bill. "An enforcement measure should be considered with a broader bipartisan package," said Information Technology Association of America Government Affairs Vice President Cindy Jimenez. ITAA is part of the Compete America coalition of high-tech groups advocating for increases in the H-1B visa caps. Other business groups are asking for greater availability for the low-skilled guestworker H-2A and H-2B visas as well as more green cards.

Pelosi's Amnesty Scheme

For months, leading Democrats like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee chief Rahm Emanuel have tried to talk tough on illegal immigration. Mr. Emanuel told The Washington Post last year that immigration is "the third rail of American politics," adding that "anyone who doesn't realize that isn't with the American people," earning himself angry denunciations from the far-left fringe. Last month, Mrs. Pelosi joined House Minority Leader John Boehner in announcing that the House-passed economic stimulus bill would "not allow any taxpayer funds to be distributed to illegals." The Democratic leadership's efforts to sound tough on illegal immigration have created serious friction with some members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, which believes the Democratic leadership is too timid about pushing for amnesty legislation.

Blue Dogs Want Immigration Debate

House Democratic leaders face growing pressure from their caucus to debate immigration changes this year, despite the roiling politics of the issue and the failure of legislation last summer in the Senate.

Bilbray Touts Employer Responsibility in Proposed Immigration Bill

U.S. Rep. Brian Bilbray, who has made illegal immigration the cornerstone of his current congressional term, said that making the business community part of the solution is key to solving the problem of illegal immigration in the United States.

Donnelly Touts Efforts to Curb Illegal Immigration

Congressman Joe Donnelly says the U.S. Border Patrol needs more resources to fight illegal immigration. He just returned from a trip to the U.S.-Mexico border. Donnelly is co-sponsoring the SAVE Act — SAVE stands for Secure America with Verification and Enforcement.

Shuler's SAVE Act Gets Farmer Support

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two North Carolina agricultural organizations have endorsed Congressman Heath Shuler's Secure America through Verification and Enforcement Act.

Shuler, Bilbray join forces on border security measure

Two ardent proponents of border security are teaming up to introduce a bipartisan bill aimed at curtailing illegal immigration through employer sanctions.

Judge Suspends Key Bush Effort in Immigration

A federal judge in San Francisco ordered an indefinite delay yesterday of a central measure of the Bush administration’s new strategy to curb illegal immigration.

Effort to Curb Illegal Workers' Hiring Blocked

A federal judge barred the Bush administration yesterday from launching a planned crackdown on U.S. companies that employ illegal immigrants, warning of its potentially "staggering" impact on law-abiding workers and companies.

Judge blocks worker ID rule

SAN FRANCISCO — A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the government cannot use mismatched Social Security data to root out illegal immigrants from the workforce, declaring that such enforcement actions would do "irreparable harm to innocent workers and employers."

Judge grants request to block U.S. government plan on illegal labor

sAN FRANCISCO — A federal judge on Wednesday granted a request by labor and civil liberties organizations to temporarily block the U.S. government from proceeding with a plan to crack down on businesses that may be employing illegal immigrants.

SAN FRANCISCO JUDGE OBSTRUCTS CRACKDOWN ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION EMPLOYMENT

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statements today in response to a ruling by San Francisco federal judge Charles R. Breyer to extend a ban further delaying the Social Security Administration’s efforts to establish a process for employers to follow after receiving a notice, known as a no-match letter, reporting that an employee’s identity information does not match the agency’s records.  If an employee cannot clarify the mismatch within 90 days, the employer would be required to fire the worker or risk prosecution for knowingly hiring illegal immigrants, who oftentimes use false Social Security numbers qualify for employment.  The lawsuit challenging the new crackdown on illegal immigration employment was filed by the ACLU, AFL-CIO and the United States Chamber of Commerce.

BILBRAY TO PELOSI: “Border Security is About National Security”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called a plan to build fencing along parts of the Mexico border a “terrible idea” during her trip to the Rio Grande Valley.  Congressman Brian Bilbray (CA-50), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus and a co-sponsor of the Secure Fence Act issued the following statement in response:

Boozman: 287(g) Welcome In NW Arkansas

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) today praised the formal agreements between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and four Northwest Arkansas law enforcement agencies to implement the 287(g) program, allowing the agencies to perform immigration law enforcement functions

GOP bill targets 'sanctuary cities'

A group of House Republicans has introduced legislation designed to "send a loud and clear message" to a growing number of "sanctuary cities" across the country, saying those who offer safe harbor to illegal aliens will not be tolerated.

U.S. Courts Strike Down Immigration Ordinances

Cox News Service

LEGISLATION INTRODUCEDTARGETING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT SANCTUARY CITIES

Congressman Brian Bilbray (CA-50), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus has joined with Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) to introduce legislation today that will crack down on the growing trend of sanctuary cities providing illegal immigrants with a safe harbor from penalty or arrest.  The bill, H.R. 3531, the Accountability in Enforcing Immigration Laws Act of 2007 has been introduced with original co-sponsors Reps. Thelma Drake (VA-02), Jeff Miller (FL-01) and Tom Tancredo (CO-06). 

REP. BROWN-WAITE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TARGETING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT SANCTUARY CITIES

U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) has introduced legislation to crack down on the growing trend of sanctuary cities providing illegal immigrants with a safe harbor from penalty or arrest.  Her bill, H.R. 3531, the Accountability in Enforcing Immigration Laws Act of 2007 was introduced September 14, 2007 with original co-sponsors Reps. Brian Bilbray (CA-50), Thelma Drake (VA-02), Jeff Miller (FL-01) and Tom Tancredo (CO-06).

Myrick Denounces Mexican President for Criticizing American Laws

September 11, 2007

Report estimates county's illegal immigrant cost at $256 million in 2006

SAN DIEGO ---- A county-commissioned study estimated that illegal immigrants directly cost the county of San Diego and taxpayers $101 million last year, and indirectly cost an additional $155 million in unpaid medical care.

Bilbray Argues San Jose Bill Would Reward Illegal Immigration

Congress is again debating comprehensive immigration reform. 

SAN DIEGO COUNTY TAXPAYERS GET STUCK WITH A $101 MILLION BILL

The County of San Diego released a new report this afternoon revealing a $101 million a year price-tag resulting from the costs associated with illegal immigration.  The study also reported that the illegal immigrant population in San Diego County had more than doubled since 1990.

Blackburn Legislation to Target Sanctuary Cities, Dangerous Criminal Aliens

Congressman Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) today introduced legislation designed to implement an efficient system of identifying and removing violent criminal illegal immigrants, while denying specific federal funding to American "Sanctuary Cities" that protect violent criminal aliens.

SELECT COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED TO INVESTIGATE ‘STOLEN’ ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION VOTE

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus, issued the following statement today regarding the select investigative committee that has been formed to address the unprecedented events surrounding and following an August 2nd House vote on a Republican proposal that sought to ensure that taxpayer dollars could not be used to employ or provide housing for illegal immigrants:

Immigration rules may hurt economy

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff predicted painful economic fallout from the array of immigration enforcement measures the administration unveiled Friday in an attempt to choke off the jobs "magnet" that draws illegal immigrants.

Government goes after identity fakers

Washington — The Bush administration on Friday announced a broad crackdown on illegal immigration, including increased fines or criminal prosecution for companies that hire illegal workers.

Bush pushes border reforms ; More agents, tools sought

The Bush administration yesterday announced reforms to better secure the nation's borders and address rising immigration challenges.

CONGRESSMAN BRIAN BILBRAY SUPPORTS CALL FOR INTERIOR AND EMPLOYER ENFORCEMENT

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statement of support for the Bush Administration’s renewed commitment to aggressively enforce current immigration laws, work to secure the border and crackdown on employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants:

STATEMENT BY CONGRESSMAN BILBRAY

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus, released the following statement this morning in response to last night’s vote on a measure that would have added language to the FY 2008 Agriculture spending bill to prohibit illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded Federal benefits:   

Rep. Scott Garrett Outraged by Democrat Tactics to Silence the American People

In response to the deceptive tactics led by the Democratic Party last night, Rep. Garrett issued the following statement:

Sullivan Legislation Maintains the Integrity of the U.S. Immigration System

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REP. BROWN-WAITE: "WHY I WALKED OFF THE HOUSE FLOOR LAST NIGHT"

U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today released the following statement about unprecedented Democrat actions on the floor of the House last night.  The Majority's power-grab shut out of legislative debate and decision making Members of both parties who believe we should not give taxpayer funded benefits to illegal immigrants.  Rep. Brown-Waite joined virtually all the Republicans in boycotting the final vote on the Agriculture Appropriations bill in protest of Tammany Hall style vote fixing.  

Statement by Congressman Blackburn

Early this morning House Democrats displayed an unprecedented abuse of power by trying to reverse a recorded vote on the House floor.  During consideration of the Motion to Recommit H.R. 3161, legislation to fund FY 2008 Agriculture Appropriations, Republicans attempted to add language to the bill prohibit illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded Federal benefits.  Yet the House Democrat Leadership reversed the vote following an apparent Republican victory.

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS BLASTS PROPOSAL TO MAKE HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS ACCESSIBLE TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC) blasted plans to eliminate proof-of-citizenship requirements for anyone applying for Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).  IRC Chairman, Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) went further by calling on members of Congress to do the right thing and fight to keep the citizenship requirements in the final SCHIP bill. 

BILBRAY: “We will secure our borders.”

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-Carlsbad), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus, issued the following statement today following Mexico's Environment Secretary calling on the United States to alter a plan to expand border fences designed to stem illegal immigration:

BILBRAY SUPPORTS EFFORTS TO SECURE OUR BORDERS

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus, expressed his support for the Senate’s efforts to secure our borders and enforce the nation’s immigration laws.  Earlier today, the Senate overwhelmingly approved a $3 billion amendment to the Department of Homeland Security spending bill that would increase manpower and the use of technology in an effort to secure the border and improve interior enforcement.

House Passes Drake Amendment to Eradicate Sanctuary Cities

The U.S. House of Representatives today passed an amendment by Representative Thelma Drake (R-Va.) to H.R. 2638, the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2008.  Passing by a voice vote, Rep. Drake’s amendment aims to eliminate what are commonly referred to as “sanctuary policies” in local municipalities, whereby law enforcement officials are barred from asking suspects about their immigration status or reporting them to Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE).  The amendment will ensure that existing law is enforced uniformly across the country by withholding federal funding for cities that choose to violate section 642(a) of the 1996 Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA).

Employer Enforcement and Border Security Can’t Wait

July 25, 2007

Little-Known Group Claims a Win on Immigration

When a comprehensive immigration bill collapsed last month on the Senate floor, it was a victory for a small group that had been lobbying Congress for a decade to reduce the number of immigrants — legal and illegal — in the United States.

House Republicans vow to take the offensive on immigration

House Republicans are planning to use the ashes of the Senate immigration bill to resurrect the debate on border security.

TRANSCRIPT: HOUSE REPUBLICANS HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION

Members of the House Republican Leadership, the Republican Study Committee and the Immigration Reform Caucus held a press conference today regarding the fallout from the defeat of the Kennedy-Bush amnesty bill earlier today in the Senate. 

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS MEMBERS REACT TO BREAKDOWN OF THE KENNEDY-BUSH AMNESTY BILL

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statements this afternoon following the Senate’s unsuccessful vote to move ahead with the Bush-Kennedy amnesty bill:

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS SUPPORTS RESOLUTION OPPOSING KENNEDY-BUSH AMNESTY BILL

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC) issued the following statements regarding the adoption of a resolution opposing the Kennedy-Bush amnesty bill by the House Republican Conference:

After test vote, immigration deal has pulse

The Senate breathed new life yesterday into a sweeping immigration package that would tighten the border while giving new legal status to 12 million undocumented immigrants, voting to move ahead with debate on a measure that has caused deep emotional and political rifts across the country.

Citing constituent outcry, House Immigration Reform Caucus sees increase in membership

When debate on the Senate immigration bill heated up earlier this month, the phones in the office of freshman Rep. Jason Altmire (D-Pa.) began to ring continuously.

Caucus vows fight if immigration pact reaches the House

Rep. Brian Bilbray of Carlsbad and other “anti-amnesty” House Republicans delivered a sharp warning yesterday, saying compromise immigration legislation pending in the Senate faces raucous and determined opposition if it reaches the House.

Dem poll finds tepid support for immigration bill

A new Democratic poll released Tuesday could spell trouble for the big Senate immigration bill scheduled for another key procedural vote later this week.

Bilbray offers alternative to Senate immigration bill

NORTH COUNTY — Rep. Brian Bilbray, R-Solana Beach, and other leading House Republicans announced Tuesday they would introduce an alternative to the Senate immigration reform plan, which has raised the ire of some conservatives by proposing to legalize illegal immigrants.

TRUE IMMIGRATION REFORM BILL INTRODUCED

Immigration Reform Caucus Chairman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) joined Congressman Peter T. King (R-NY), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, and Congressman Lamar Smith (R-TX), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, to unveil two new border security and immigration initiatives—a comprehensive border security and immigration reform bill as well as a resolution calling for full enforcement of all current immigration laws.  The two new measures represent a strong ‘Security First-No Amnesty’ alternative to the Kennedy-Bush Senate Amnesty bill.

Immigration Bill Has New Life In Senate

Senate leaders, under pressure from pro-immigration groups and facing a determined push by President Bush, agreed last night to bring a controversial overhaul of the nation's immigration laws back to the Senate floor as early as next week.

BILBRAY STATEMENT ON BORDER SECURITY FOR AMNESTY DEAL

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) issued the following statement today regarding the proposed amendment to allocate $4.4 billion for border security measures in exchange for passage of the Kennedy-Bush amnesty bill:  

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS MEMBERS CALL ON PRESIDENT AND CONGRESS TO PASS ‘TRUE’ IMMIGRATION REFORM

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statements this afternoon following the President’s visit to Capitol Hill calling on the President and the Senate to abandon their attempts to pass an amnesty bill and instead move ahead on legislation that will immediately address our vulnerabilities at the border and implement meaningful employer and interior enforcement:

Kennedy-Bush Amnesty Wrong Approach

During my first campaign for Congress in 2004, I heard about immigration often -- from American workers afraid of losing their jobs to illegal immigrants, from recent immigrants who wanted to bring their overseas family to America, from parents worried about cross-border drug smuggling, and from a hundred other corners. I listened as carefully as I could, and whenever anyone asked for my view, I answered simply, “Secure our borders and enforce our laws.”

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS MEMBERS REACT TO BREAKDOWN OF THE KENNEDY-BUSH AMNESTY BILL

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statements this afternoon following the Senate’s unsuccessful vote to move ahead with the Bush-Kennedy amnesty bill:

Immigration bill fails crucial vote in Senate

The Senate effort to overhaul the nation's dysfunctional immigration system collapsed Thursday night as both parties deadlocked over a bill that received only tepid support from the public, business and immigrant-rights interests.

Senate derails amnesty legislation

West Virginia's congressional delegation helped derail a controversial immigration bill they say would have granted amnesty for 12 million illegal immigrants.

Rejecting Amnesty, Supporting the Rule of Law

I am a strong proponent of securing our borders and enforcing our interior immigration laws.  In addition, I believe it is irresponsible for Congress to even consider a guest worker program until our borders are secure and our current immigration laws are enforced.  Unfortunately, the United States Senate is currently debating just that: legislation which will grant amnesty to many of the 12 to 20 million illegal aliens who are currently residing in the U.S. and will create a far reaching guest worker program.  Proponents of this legislation, led by Senator Ted Kennedy, like to call it “comprehensive immigration reform,” but I will call it what it is: amnesty.

CONGRESSMAN BRIAN BILBRAY: “Failure to move forward on Kennedy-Bush amnesty bill is victory for our neighborhoods-we still need to pass a "true" immigration bill”

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus issued the following statement following the Senate’s unsuccessful vote to move ahead with the Bush-Kennedy amnesty bill:

IMMIGRATION BILL MUST DIE

Amnesty is not a “narrow slice” or “one little aspect” of the Senate immigration deal as the President argues.  Awarding amnesty to 10-20 million illegal aliens would be the one sure result.   It will promote more illegal immigration by almost guaranteeing that if you can cross the border, you will be able to become a permanent U.S. resident. 

AMID SENATE AMNESTY DEBATE – IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS WELCOMES NEW MEMBER

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC), announced today that Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) has become the 106th member of the IRC.

What They're Saying

National Association of Former U.S. Border Patrol Officers:  “An association of former U.S. Border Patrol officers, whose members include retired chiefs, supervisors, field agents and inspectors, says an immigration bill being debated in the Senate is "unrealistic and technologically unfeasible."  Instead, the National Association of Former Border Patrol Officers said in a press conference this week and in a position paper, real immigration reform would include securing the border, tightening the screening of those permitted to enter, and opposition to any legislation allowing aliens to remain in the country who entered illegally.” (Ex-border agents:  Illegals bill ‘unrealistic’, Washington Times, June 7, 2007)

What They're Saying

National Association of Former U.S. Border Patrol Officers:  “An association of former U.S. Border Patrol officers, whose members include retired chiefs, supervisors, field agents and inspectors, says an immigration bill being debated in the Senate is "unrealistic and technologically unfeasible."  Instead, the National Association of Former Border Patrol Officers said in a press conference this week and in a position paper, real immigration reform would include securing the border, tightening the screening of those permitted to enter, and opposition to any legislation allowing aliens to remain in the country who entered illegally.” (Ex-border agents:  Illegals bill ‘unrealistic’, Washington Times, June 7, 2007)

FEENEY'S IMMIGRATION TERRIBLE TOP TEN COUNTDOWN

U.S. Rep. Tom Feeney (R-Oviedo) today announced the ninth of ten reasons why every hardworking taxpayer should oppose this immigration amnesty sellout.

Congress Should Reject Amnesty and Secure the Border

America is a land of immigrants. My grandparents were immigrants from Finland who came to the United States to create a better life for themselves and their family. My family's story is one that is shared by millions of Americans whose ancestors came to our shores searching for economic opportunity and a better life.

`Amnesty' snarls any consensus over immigration

Smart Box - "An amnesty differs from a general pardon in that the latter simply relieves from punishment whereas the former declares innocence or abolishes the crime." Encyclopedia Britannica

Verification rules to aid employer prosecutions

The immigration reform bill that the Senate is scheduled to resume debating next week would make it difficult for employers to claim they unknowingly hired illegal aliens, according to reform advocates.

Immigration Bill's Unnecessary Time Constraints

Considering that it is the result of secret, closed door negotiations, it's not surprising that Sen. Ted Kennedy's new amnesty proposal was finished over a weekend and taken up by the Senate on Monday, giving the rest of the Senators and the rest of the world only one work day to read the fine print.  This unrealistic timeframe is fairly representative of the whole plan, especially considering that this proposal requires only one business day each for a background check on the millions of current illegal immigrants before they must be given preliminary legal status. 

Amnesty for Honest Gang Bangers

Too many tv comedians joke about the “Crips” and the “Bloods,” rival gangs in Southern California. But for thousands of Americans, street gangs are a threatening reality. As Central Americans migrate to the United States in great numbers, they bring with them some of the world’s most brutal gangs -- including the notorious and rapidly growing MS-13’s (Mara Salvatrucha), an extremely violent  group that boasts close to 10,000 members in over 33 US states.

AMID KENNEDY-BUSH AMNESTY DEBATE –CONGRESSMAN DARRELL ISSA JOINSIMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC), announced today that Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista), a Member of the House Judiciary Committee and a longtime advocate of strengthening border security and interior enforcement, has joined the IRC becoming its 105th member.

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS: AMNESTY MORE THAN JUST A “NARROW SLICE” MR. PRESIDENT

Speaking at a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia yesterday, President Bush said the following:  “Those determined to find fault with this bill will always be able to look at a narrow slice of it and find something they don't like.  If you want to kill the bill, if you don't want to do what's right for America, you can pick one little aspect out of it.”

BILBRAY: “Amnesty for 12-20 million illegal immigrants isn’t a “narrow slice” Mr. President, it’s the whole darn pie.”

Speaking at a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia this morning, President Bush said the following:  “Those determined to find fault with this bill will always be able to look at a narrow slice of it and find something they don't like.  If you want to kill the bill, if you don't want to do what's right for America, you can pick one little aspect out of it.”

Carter Proposes Legislation to Prevent Illegal Immigration

WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Representative John Carter (R, Round Rock), House Republican Conference Secretary, has proposed three bills that call for greater protections for social security numbers in order to deter illegal immigration.  The Social Security Card Fortification Act, the Social Security Number Non-Proliferation Act and the Social Security Protection Act will help prevent illegal immigrants from using fraudulent citizenship documentation to gain employment in the United States.

What They're Saying

TJ Bonner, President of the National Border Patrol Council:  “Every person who has ever risked their life securing our borders is extremely disheartened to see some of our elected representatives once again waving the white flag on the issues of illegal immigration and border security.  Rewarding criminal behavior has never induced anyone to abide by the law, and there is no reason to believe that the outcome will be any different in this case.” (Statement issued on May 20th)

Divisive immigration measure on hold as senators return home to hear from voters

Lawmakers are bracing for political blowback from liberal and conservative critics of a broad immigration reform measure that's on hold as they head home for a weeklong break.

Sen. Kyl Poses False Choice on Immigration Bill

The Senate immigration "bargain" is amnesty.  No question.  Since most Americans understand that, it is surprising when some of my fellow conservatives, like Sen. Jon Kyl (R.-Ariz.), claim that the bill is anything but amnesty.  But if it walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it must be a duck.

AMID SENATE AMNESTY DEBATE – IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS WELCOMES THREE NEW MEMBERS

Lawmakers are bracing for political blowback from liberal and conservative critics of a broad immigration reform measure that's on hold as they head home for a weeklong break.

Price Amendment Rejects Amnesty

Rep. Tom Price (GA-06-R) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives voted on a bipartisan basis to adopt an amendment to the Federal Housing Finance Reform Act (H.R. 1427) introduced by Rep. Price along with fellow Representatives Shelley Moore Capito (WV), John Campbell (CA) and Steve Pearce (NM).

Shuster Opposes Senate Amnesty Bill

Congressman Bill Shuster released the following statement on the Senate immigration reform legislation introduced by Senator Kennedy:

What Part of Illegal Don’t Senators Understand?

When offered the opportunity to take a stand and defend the rule of law principles our country was founded upon, lawmakers in the Senate gave into political pressure and betrayed the American people.  The “grand bargain” announced by Sen. Kennedy, Bush Administration officials and other “friends” will do more to encourage illegal immigration activity in America than any other policy that preceded it.  Now, the only hope to prevent such an amnesty from moving forward is for the American people to put the pressure on Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate.

CNN LATE EDITION WITH WOLF BLITZER

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

No Amnesty for Illegal Immigrants

Congressman Bill Shuster released the following statement on the Senate immigration reform legislation introduced by Senator Kennedy:

PENALTIES BECOME FOCUS OF IMMIGRATION DEBATE

The ambitious proposal to revamp the U.S. immigration system negotiated by the White House and key senators will confront a critical question next week: How tough does it have to be on illegal immigrants to pass?

'AMNESTY' HAS VOLATILE HISTORY

NEW YORK - The word "amnesty," at the core of the debate over a proposed immigration overhaul, has been a volatile, politically charged term throughout its history, often applying to acts hailed by supporters as magnanimous and assailed by critics as weak-kneed.

Kennedy Defends Compromise

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress should coalesce behind sweeping new compromise immigration legislation despite steep political obstacles because opportunities to confront the problem head-on are rare, Sen. Edward Kennedy said Friday.

IRC CHAIRMAN ON CNN'S LOU DOBBS TONIGHT

Speaking at a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia this morning, President Bush said the following:  “Those determined to find fault with this bill will always be able to look at a narrow slice of it and find something they don't like.  If you want to kill the bill, if you don't want to do what's right for America, you can pick one little aspect out of it.”

IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS RESPONDS TO SENATE ‘COMPROMISE’ AMNESTY BILL

Smith: Illegal Immigrants Take Jobs from African-Americans

Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Lamar Smith (R-TX) today urged a group of African-American civil rights leaders to help stop a Senate amnesty bill because it will drastically reduce job opportunities for African-American workers. 

Royce on Passing the Stolen Passport Amendment

Statement by Rep. Ed Royce (Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation & Trade) on the passing of an amendment to the Homeland Security Authorization bill dictating the use of the Interpol Stolen Passport Database on US borders.

Boozman: Arrests Highlight Need for Cut Program

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) today voiced concern over a recently-passed Democratic Homeland Security plan in light of the arrests of a dozen illegal immigrants at Camp Joseph T. Robinson Army National Guard Base in Little Rock.

SALI HAILED AS 'KEY VOICE' AGAINST AMNESTY, BECOMES 100TH MEMBER OF IMMIGRATION REFORM CAUCUS

U.S. Rep. Brian Bilbray, the chairman of Immigration Reform Caucus, today hailed Congressman Bill Sali as "a key voice" against amnesty and welcomed Sali as the 100th member of the caucus.

Sullivan Legislation Maintains the Integrity of the U.S. Immigration System

Yesterday, Congressman John Sullivan introduced H. Res. 351, a straightforward resolution which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that federal authorities should strengthen and vigorously enforce all existing immigration laws.

Immigration Reform Caucus Welcomes New Members; Caucus Reaches 101 Members

Congressman Brian Bilbray, Chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC), announced today that nine new members have joined the IRC which now has 101 members.  With the Senate expected to act soon on illegal immigration reform legislation, the issue of illegal immigration is once again at the forefront of national attention.

Immigration Reform Caucus Responds to Nationwide Immigration Protests

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus released the following statements this afternoon regarding today’s nationwide immigration protests:

Immigration Reform Caucus Members Speak Out Against Amnesty

Members of the House Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC) issued the following statements responding to President Bush’s call to produce a “comprehensive” illegal immigration reform bill by the end of this year:

Ninety-Seven Members of Congress Call on Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Oppose Amnesty Legislation

Ninety-seven members of Congress sent a letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) today urging her to oppose efforts to put the 12 million illegal immigrants in this country on a path to citizenship.  “We are united in asking you not to bring amnesty legislation to the House floor,” the letter stated.

Immigration Reform Caucus Reacts to Flake-Gutierrez Illegal Immigration Bill

Members of the Immigration Reform Caucus released the following statements in reaction to the introduction of the Flake-Gutierrez illegal immigration bill:

Congressman Brian Bilbray: Inspector General's Report Highlights Department of Homeland Security Shortcomings

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA), the Ranking Member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Management, Organization, and Procurement released the following statement today following the release of a report by the Homeland Security Department’s (DHS) Inspector General revealing that the Department has failed to find and deport 623,292 foreign fugitives:

House Backers of Immigration Overhaul Beat Senate Allies to the Punch

A bipartisan group of House members unveiled an immigration overhaul bill Thursday and promised action before summer, jumping ahead of Senate colleagues who are struggling to reach consensus.

Proposal Would Deny Citizenship to US-born Children if Illegal Immigrants

When children of illegal immigrants are born in the United States, they automatically become citizens. Some Republicans want to revoke that privilege to discourage others from crossing the border.

Political pressures put immigration overhaul in doubt

The big immigration overhaul promised by Democrats and the Bush administration this year is foundering before it even gets off the ground.

House immigration bill offers citizenship

Two lawmakers will fire the opening salvo in this year's immigration debate Thursday when they introduce the first House bill in many years to call for citizenship for illegal immigrants.

Immigration Foes Retooling Caucus

In a deliberate departure from the leadership style of controversial Rep. Tom Tancredo (R-Colo.), the new chairman of the House Immigration Reform Caucus is recruiting a Democratic co-chairman and attempting to transform the politically charged group into a policy-oriented outfit.

Inside The Beltway: Border Experience

The Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC) has lined up a new chairman who actually grew up on the U.S.-Mexican border, Rep. Brian Bilbray of California.

Bilbray courts Dems on immigration reform

In his new role as chairman of the Republican-dominated Immigration Reform Caucus, U.S. Rep. Brian Bilbray said Wednesday that he plans to reach across the aisle to Democratic lawmakers to address the issue of illegal immigration.

Congressman Brian Bilbray Named Chair of the Immigration Reform Caucus

Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) announced today that he will succeed Congressman Tom Tancredo (R-CO) as chairman of the Immigration Reform Caucus (IRC). “Congressman Bilbray was asked to lead the IRC because of his pragmatic approach to the illegal immigration issue,” Congressman Tancredo said. “Brian has held the line against amnesty, fought for border security and will be a terrific leader of the Immigration Reform Caucus.”