July 25, 2006 10:16 AM CDT

Pence Immigration Plan Receives Attention

By Jessica Johnson Bennett

Recently, Congressman Mike Pence, (R-IN) has put forth a plan that is receiving a great deal of attention. Rep. Pence, a leading conservative in the House is a leading proponent of the House's bill, H.R. 4437. In realizing that there were drastic differences between the House and Senate bill and what the President envisions, the Representative designed his own immigration reform proposal which he explained in detail last week to the President and Vice President Cheney.

One of the pillars of the Representative's program is the requirement that all illegal depart the U.S. briefly and then re-enter. This is similar to the "touch-base" proposal that has surfaced before. Another cornerstone of the proposal is that private employment agencies would be established overseas to process the applications of those applying to return to the U.S. through the guest worker program. As noted by Rep. Pence, "I believe it's amnesty if you can get right with the law by paying a fine but never have to go home." MCAA along with other Construction Trade Associations met with Congressman Pence's staff last Monday to discuss his plan and its impact on employers. The Congressman's staff has asked for our input and will be sending any new language to us for review.

In addition, the Senate Judiciary Committee has begun holding hearings around the country regarding Immigration and its impact on the U.S. and our economy. Wednesday, the House Education and Workforce Committee held its first hearing on the issue since passage of the Senate bill. MCAA, along with ABC, NAHB, AGC, NRCA and PHCCA, will be sending a letter to Committee members and the House Leadership, thanking them for holding the hearing and expressing our support for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.

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About the Author

Jessica Johnson Bennett was the Director of Government Affairs for MCAA. She has an extensive background in public affairs and government relations. Her expertise in strategic planning, PAC management and operations help on key policy issues.