At a news conference on Capitol Hill, today U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3rd Dist.-Texas) unveiled new legislation to focus on “enforcement first” to help stem the tide of illegal immigration. The bill introduction comes on the heels of a new report that notes that illegal immigration is on the rise.
At a news conference on Capitol Hill, today U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3rd Dist.-Texas) unveiled new legislation to focus on “enforcement first” to help stem the tide of illegal immigration. The bill introduction comes on the heels of a new report that notes that illegal immigration is on the rise.
“We cannot have a secure nation without secure borders,” said Johnson.
The Enforcement First Immigration Reform Act proactively addresses several issues. The bill would: initiate strong, vigorous interior enforcement of laws against illegal immigration; reduce identification fraud; enhance security by using military enforcement the border; eliminate the hiring of illegal aliens; reform current work visa programs to be more employer and immigrant friendly; and defend citizenship. Specifically, the initiative ends the practice of granting citizenship to any child born in the United States unless at least one parent is in the U.S. legally.
A new report from the Pew Hispanic Center shows that more immigrants enter this country illegally than legally, despite increased security in the wake of 2001 attacks on America. “In my mind, if you’re here legally, you should be rewarded. If you’re here illegally, you should be deported.”
“Don’t just send illegal immigrants home. Let’s stop them before they get here. This bill does that,” continued Johnson.
Johnson vehemently opposes any blanket amnesty programs. Johnson hopes that the Congress will address illegal immigration in the 109th Congress. Last week Johnson joined Texas lawmakers in declaring a State of Emergency along the border with Mexico. To view a copy of the letter the Lone Star State lawmakers sent to President Bush, visit SamJohnson.House.gov.
In addition, to view a summary of the bill or the text, visit SamJohnson.House.gov.
Johnson represents portions of Dallas and Collin Counties.
