US Congressman Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus has signed a discharge petition to force House Republican leadership to allow a vote on comprehensive immigration reform legislation.
The discharge petition would force a vote on the House floor on H.R. 15, the bipartisan Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, if 218 members of Congress sign on. A recent study by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office concluded that H.R. 15 would reduce the nation’s deficit by $900 billion.
Representative Crowley says signing this petition is sending a clear message demanding a vote on comprehensive immigration reform.
“For generations, this country has offered the hope of a stronger future to people from all corners of the world. My family, like so many others, came here from another land in search of the promise of a better life.
“For today’s immigrants, that promise is hanging in the balance. It depends on Congress enacting a comprehensive immigration reform measure that will bring millions out of the shadows, allow them to live and work here without fear of being separated from their families and offer them the chance to someday reach the ultimate goal of becoming American citizens.
Joe Crowley went on to say “By passing comprehensive immigration reform, we can not only continue our proud immigrant tradition, but also honor it with an immigration system that actually works.
“There is no reason this important issue should continue to languish in favor of political games. The time is now for action, and I am proud to add my voice to those calling for immediate progress on real reform.”
Congressman Crowley has been an outspoken advocate for comprehensive immigration reform. Last fall, Crowley, along with Reps. Luis Gutiérrez (D-IL), John Lewis (D-GA), other House colleagues, and 200 immigration reform advocates, was arrested by the U.S. Capitol Police in an act of civil disobedience calling on Congress to address immigration reform. In December, Crowley fasted in support of Fast for Families, a group of advocates who fasted to call attention to Republican leaders’ refusal to address comprehensive immigration reform.