Madam Speaker. I rise today to express my support for some provisions of President Bushs FY08 budget request regarding illegal immigration. His plan includes hiring 3.000 new Border Patrol agents. improving technology and infrastructure along the border. and helping end the failed "catch and release" policy. The Presidents proposal also offers assistance to State and local law enforcement agencies. My district in Southern Arizona continues to bear the burden of our Nations failed immigration policy. especially in our schools. hospitals. and law enforcement agencies. The Presidents ideas will. to some degree. help alleviate this crisis. However. these policies must be a part of a comprehensive immigration reform plan to efiectively secure the border and stop illegal immigration. We not only need better border security and more support for border patrol agents. but also employer sanctions for those knowingly hiring illegal immigrants and a guest worker program. Most importantly. we need fair compensation for border communities struggling with the costs of illegal immigration. I applaud the President for reaching out to Congress on this issue. and I look forward to working with the administration and Republicans and Democrats in Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform.
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illegal immigration Border Patrol illegal immigrants border patrol border security immigration