Earlier this month, the Senate agreed to debate the most comprehensive immigration reform legislation in years.  The bill, drafted by a bipartisan group of senators known as the “Gang of Eight,” came to the Senate floor with serious shortcomings.  Without amendments for tougher enforcement, it would fail to stop illegal immigration in America once and for all.

In a recent speech on the Senate floor, I reiterated my opposition to legislation that lacks robust reforms to secure our border and enforce immigration law.  With projections that large numbers of people will overstay their visas in the future, even the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office predicts that the reforms proposed by the “Gang of Eight” would reduce illegal immigration by only 25 percent.  This falls far short of the enduring solution America urgently needs.

Severe gaps in security must be corrected if Washington is to avoid the pitfalls of past reform efforts.  I have expressed my support for policies that promote better surveillance and technology, such as a national E-Verify system for employers.  These steps to modernize our immigration system must precede efforts to grant legal status.         

Ending ‘Sanctuary Cities’

Amendments are a key part of the legislative process, and more than 250 have been filed to the immigration bill.  I have authored several of these amendments, including important legislation to end so-called “sanctuary cities.”  These localities, which protect illegal immigrants by refusing to assist federal authorities, should not be allowed to flout the law.

Under my amendment, “sanctuary cities” would be denied state funding and law enforcement grants if the violations continue.  In addition, states would be encouraged to cooperate and share information with the Department of Homeland Security.  My legislation stipulates that individuals who violate immigration law must be included in the National Crime Information Center Database.

Ensuring Accountability

Many Mississippians have contacted my office and spoken to me directly about their concerns with any legislative proposal that offers amnesty.  I remain staunchly opposed to any attempt to grant amnesty and have introduced amendments to ensure that illegal immigrants are held accountable.  One of my amendments to the immigration bill would double the penalties levied against illegal immigrants who apply for legal status.  Another would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to adjust the penalties and fees each year for inflation, just as many other federal programs do.  What amounts to a substantial penalty in 2013 may not be as considerable 10 years from now. 

Providing Greater Enforcement

I have also authored legislation that would toughen the eligibility requirements for illegal immigrants seeking provisional legal status.  One of my amendments would prohibit applications from individuals who have previously filed frivolous applications for asylum.  Another would expedite the removal proceedings of applicants found ineligible for legal status because they have serious criminal records.  A third amendment would clarify that the Secretary of Homeland Security should revoke the provisional legal status of an individual who becomes ineligible, uses fraudulent information, or fails to fulfill the bill’s physical presence requirement.

There is plenty of work left to do in making our immigration system stronger, but we should welcome the chance to solve this great challenge of our day.  Widespread agreement exists that our current system is broken and that reform is long overdue.  Meaningful amendments and bipartisan consensus offer an opportunity to shape the future of U.S. immigration policy in beneficial ways.