[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 13 (Thursday, January 22, 2009)]
[House]
[Page H447]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM

  (Mr. BACA asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on behalf of the 14 million 
undocumented immigrants who would otherwise not have a voice.
  Immigrants are not only a valuable part of our country's workforce, 
but they also add to America's rich diversity. Sadly, immigration raids 
tear apart immigrant families, instill fear, and disrespects America's 
core family values.
  We are a Nation devoted to family. No one should live in fear of 
being taken away from their homes. Strong border enforcement is 
necessary, but this only addresses part of the situation. Together, we 
must work to address the 12 to 14 million undocumented immigrants. 
Every day that we do nothing, a family is torn apart by this broken 
immigration system.
  Our current immigration system is outdated. We need a system that 
addresses the needs of the current immigration situation in America.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in passing real comprehensive 
immigration reform.
  Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, the honeymoon is over. Let's begin to 
address comprehensive immigration on behalf of the 12 to 14 million 
people here in the United States.

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