Speech #1090128698

These individuals didnt want to become Americans for personal gain. they wanted to become Americans to serve others. They embody the American ideal of helping others regardless of personal cost. It is vitally important that we implement immigration reform. We need a bill that strengthens our borders and protects this nation. but that also makes it simpler for good people to become Americans. We need a bill that provides a way for immigrants who are in this country illegally to register and become documented. lawful immigrants. There must be penalties for individuals whove violated American immigration laws. However. we must encourage undocumented individuals to "get right" with our government and register. We must face the reality of immigration in this country. In Washington State. the immigrant population has grown by 42 percent in the five years between 2000 and 2005--which is an increase from 8 percent to 10.6 percent of the overall populationand the jobless rate in the state has hit a 6 year low. Immigration is not just compatible with but is a necessary component of economic growth. Going forward. as we work to strengthen our border in the interests of homeland security. we must also recognize the economic importance of immigration reform. I look forward to voting for a bill that appreciates the importance of both when safeguarding the security and economic future of this country.