Gordon H Smith
Oregon
United States Senate
June 12, 2006
To: Me
Dear Friend:
Recently, the Senate passed the Comprehensive
Immigration Reform Act of 2006 (S.2611). This
legislation addressed four major issues: border security, interior
enforcement, guest workers, and the illegal
immigrants now in the country. I believe that we cannot continue
to absorb the flow of illegal immigrants,
many of whom benefit from government services that American citizens
and companies provide. Reform is
necessary and our boarders must be tightened. anyone who wants to
come to live or work in the United
States must abide by our laws while paying taxes and learning the
English language.
During the Senate's debate on S. 2611 I voted for
numerous amendments that would strengthen
our border while preventing illegal aliens from receiving benefits for
breaking our laws. I voted to make
English our official language and require hundreds of miles of improved
fencing and vehicle barriers along
the border. I also supported an amendment that would prevent any
guest worker program from going into
effect until all required border security enhancements are
completed. Finally, I supported an amendment
that would prevent illegal aliens from receiving social Security
benefits based on their unauthorizedly work
history.
The United States' economy is the envy of the world
and the opportunities here attract millions of
workers from all over the world. Many of these workers contribute
greatly to the economy, particularly in the
high tech and agricultural sectors. While I voted for the
creation of a limited guest worker program to
keep our economy growing, I continue to oppose broad amnesty for
illegal immigrants.
Our national security depends on secure
borders. the same security gaps that allow illegal
immigrants in to cross our border also provide opportunities for
terrorists. I believe closing these gaps should
be one of our highest priorities. S, 2611 will authorize the
Department of Homeland Security to build a
"virtual fence" that will allow the border to be patrolled with
unmanned aircraft, cameras, sensors and other technology.
A 2611 is currently under final negotiation by the
House and Senate. rest assured, I will bear your
concerns in mind as this legislation comes before the Senate for a
final vote.
Warm regards,
Gordon H Smith
US Senate
A Letter to my congressmen regarding Immigration, <a
href="Immigration Reform Act of.htm">the Immigration
Reform Act.</a><br>