WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) released the following statement regarding the plan for immigration reform unveiled today by President Obama:
“I appreciate the thoughtful immigration reform proposal put forward today by President Obama. It is now up to us in Congress to come to the table – not as Republicans and Democrats, but as Americans who are proud of the opportunities available in this exceptional nation – to reform our immigration system in a way that is fair, pragmatic, and consistent with American values.
“A plan modeled after the proposals outlined by the President would accomplish many of these goals while treating those who are here illegally practically and with dignity. The DREAM provision included in the president’s plan would ensure that talented young men and women who came here through no fault of their own have an opportunity to stay in the only home they’ve ever known while contributing to our economy. The President’s plan also encourages entrepreneurs and foreign graduates skilled in science, technology, engineering, and math to live and work in the United States and grow their businesses here. I am also pleased with the President’s inclusion of LGBT families—allowing gay and lesbian Americans to sponsor their same-sex spouses just as straight Americans can is only fair and emphasizes the importance of keeping families together.
“The unveiling of the President’s plan is only one of several steps we must take to finally fix our deeply flawed immigration system, but never have I felt more confident in our ability to do just that. I stand ready to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this done.”