Rep. James Sensenbrenner has come out swinging at the Senate's immigration bill, calling it a "1,200-page boondoggle" that rewards illegal immigrants who disobey the law by offering them legal status and benefits.
"Millions of immigrants will jump to the front of the line to become permanent residents, and millions more will cross our borders illegally," the Wisconsin Republican writes in an opinion piece in the
Washington Times.
"Instead of holding those accountable who have broken our laws, either by entering our country illegally or overstaying their welcome, they will be rewarded with benefits paid for by American taxpayers."
Sensenbrenner calls it a "mistake" for the Senate to primarily focus immigration reform on the illegal immigrants currently in the country.
"We need a legal system of immigration that meets the country's economic needs. That means a temporary-worker program with flexibility based on economic need — and exit controls to ensure that workers return home," he says.
"It also means a system that allows for sufficient visas for highly skilled and technical workers, so American businesses have access to the talent they need to stay competitive.
"Finally, smart immigration reform requires increased border security and tough sanctions for employers who hire undocumented workers," Sensenbrenner writes.
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