The Senate's so called “Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill” is the wrong approach at the wrong time. While the bill proposes stronger border security, interior and workplace enforcement provisions, I oppose the Z-visa proposal or any other amnesty for illegal immigrants. Instead of putting an end to the flow of illegals across our borders, this legislation will likely increase illegal immigration.

According to the Immigration Reform Caucus, of which I am a member, Title VI of this bill grants amnesty “to virtually all of the 12 to 20 million illegals in the country today and imposes no cap on the total number of individuals who could receive Z-visa status with a simple bank statement, pay stub, or sworn affidavit from a non-relative (Section 601(i)(2)).” These illegal aliens can remain in the U.S. effectively for an indefinite period of time. In order to honor the “rule of law” as the bedrock principle of our constitution, this legislation must be rejected in its entirety unless and until Title VI is removed.

Fortunately, this bill collapsed on the Senate floor, falling 15 votes short of the 60 needed to pass. While the U.S. Senate continues to debate controversial immigration reform, I have joined 22 of my colleagues in supporting H. Res. 351 to strengthen and vigorously enforce all existing immigration laws. We must also make sure that we secure our southern borders first and shut down the flow of illegal immigrants into this country before we can move forward with other immigration proposals. I will continue to work toward sensible and comprehensive reform that is best for America.