Response from Senator Dave Cogdill Re: Illegal ImmigrationThursday, February 25, 2010 11:07 From: "SenatorCogdill@outreach.senate.ca.gov"


Thank you for your comments urging me to take a strong stand against benefits for illegal immigrants. I appreciate the time you have taken to make me aware of your concern and to share your suggestions.


If you have not done so, I recommend that you contact your federal representatives. Immigration is under federal jurisdiction. Decisions regarding immigration policy are made by the US Congress and the President of the United States . To determine who represents you, go to www.congress.org or, call your local county voter registrar’s office.


With that said, my research shows that illegal immigration costs the taxpayers of California between $5 and $10 billion every year. While stopping state aid to illegal immigrants would not close the budget gap for the state, it would help to reduce the deficit. Unfortunately, my Democrat colleagues have blocked every previous effort to reduce or eliminate programs for illegal immigrants and have, in fact, proposed additional benefits.


However, this topic has been addressed by the Governor in the past. He has proposed turning illegal immigrant prisoners over to the INS for deportation, as well as, reductions to or elimination of many programs that benefit illegal immigrants. Though these proposals were blocked by the Democrat leadership last year, they will no doubt be brought forward once again during the 2010 budget discussions. Additionally, you can be assured that I will continue to be vigilant regarding this issue.


Should you wish to make further comment about this or other state matters please do not hesitate to contact me. It is always a pleasure to hear from my constituents.



Sincerely,


Dave Cogdill

Senator, 14th District