House of Representative : Alio Sires
New Jersey

May 28, 2010

> Dear Friend,

Thank you for contacting me regarding comprehensive immigration reform. I appreciate hearing your views on this important issue.


In light of the country's estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants, mounting visa application backlogs, seperated families, and ineffective enforcement, it is clear that our immigration system is broken and in need of substantive reforms. In order to fix this broken system, I have cosponsored H.R 4321, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform for America's Security and Prosperity Act of 2009, or the CIR ASAP Act. Representative Solomon Ortiz (D-TX) introduced H.R. 4321 on December 15, 2009. The bill is currently under review by the committees of jurisdiction in the House of Representatives.


This legislation contains the essential elements needed to address the numerous challenges facing our immigration system. This reform bill would permit undocumented immigrants to come out of the shadows, become legal, and integrate into our society. It would unite families and ensure that our country has the workforce it needs now and in the future through visa reforms. H.R. 4321 would prevent workplace exploitation for both U.S. persons and migrant workers. Intimidation, physical endangerment, and other abuses are never acceptable at work, and by requiring all workers to become legal, we can increase employee leverage in holding supervisors accountable. The bill also establishes standards for immigration detention facilities.

Enforcement reform is also an important part of a comprehensive plan. Border patrol agents must have all the necessary resources to enforce the law, including proper training and access to state-of-the-art technology to reduce unauthorized entries and combat criminal activities at our borders. CIR ASAP would also create an electronic employment verfication system in which all will participate over time. Employers that knowingly violate the law will be held accountable. Through better oversight of employers and the workplace, it is possible to uphold the wages, rights, and labor protections that each worker deserves.

Please know that I understand your concerns regarding our immigration system, and rest assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress continues to examine comprehensive immigration reform.

Again, thank you for contacting me, and please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.


Sincerely,

Albio Sires
Member of Congress