Newsletter

Statement

Dear Neighbor:

Last week, the House passed the DREAM Act (H.R. 5281) which will give an estimated 2.1 million illegal immigrant students legal status and allow them to qualify for in-state tuition. While I understand that the issue of illegal immigrant students, many of whom were brought here illegally by their parents when they were children, is an emotional and humanitarian subject, I simply could not put the interests of illegal immigrant students above those of legal residents and American students.

The DREAM Act also gives illegal immigrants the right to petition for entry of their family members, including their adult brothers and sisters and the parents who illegally brought or sent them to the United States, once they become naturalized U.S. citizens. In less than a decade, this reality could easily double or triple the more than 2.1 million green cards that will be immediately distributed as a result of the DREAM Act. Our economy simply cannot handle a large influx of people looking for work when we are experiencing high unemployment and economic stagnation.

The bill also provides amnesty for individuals who enlist in the military. Our military is an all-volunteer force that should not be comprised of people who, through the DREAM Act and as a result of their service, receive legal status.

Again, I recognize the sensitive nature of this issue, however, I could not in good conscience vote for a bill that would mean fewer college opportunities for legal residents and American students, more competition for scholarship dollars, and a potential influx of workers during tough economic times. I welcome your thoughts on the DREAM Act, so please take this quick survey and let me know your opinion.

Sincerely,

KEN CALVERT
Member of Congress

Source