What’s next on immigration?
June 12, 2007| By Nathaniel Ward
Late last Thursday, the Senate opted not to vote on the flawed bipartisan immigration proposal. After this decision to extend debate, Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) formally withdrew the legislation, at least for the time being.
With the Senate bill gone (for now), it’s time for real, conservative immigration reform, argue Heritage experts James Carafano and Matthew Spalding.
Here’s what Congress should do, they write:
- Enforce the laws. “There already exist on the books numerous laws that, if enforced in a targeted manner, would discourage illegal immigration and the employment of illegal labor, as well as send the signal that such activities will no longer be overlooked.”
- Gain back control of the southern border. “Many of the border security provisions of the Senate proposal are already being implemented as requirements of previously enacted legislation.”
- Emphasize legal immigration. “The process by which individuals enter the country legally must be fair, orderly, and efficient--welcoming those who abide by immigration laws and denying entry and advantages to those who violate the law.”
- Create flexible legal opportunities to work in the United States. Revisions to immigration law, including “a balanced and well-constructed temporary worker program” would “diminish the incentives for illegal immigration by providing an additional option for legal entry.”
They go on to outline eight specific reforms Congress can undertake, including ensuring the enforcement of existing laws, working with Latin American governments for reform abroad and modernizing the immigration service.
Nathaniel Ward is the Editor of MyHeritage.org—a website for members and supporters of The Heritage Foundation.