The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2011 (CIR Act of 2011) has been introduced by Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Harry Reid (D-NV), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Charles Schumer (D-NY), John Kerry (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Patty Murray (D-WA).
The bill is written to fix the business and family visa systems and includes a required registration and legalization plan for the millions of undocumented living and working in the U.S. This legislation also includes tough enforcement provisions such as increased border security, a mandatory employment verification system and stiffer penalties on illegal immigration.
“At a time when many are proposing nothing but enforcement, this bill helps bring our national debate on immigration back on track with a more balanced, workable plan,” said Eleanor Pelta, President of AILA. “By combining enforcement with broad legalization and other key fixes, the CIR Act of 2011 addresses the most important concerns in our immigration system raised by relevant stakeholders. The bill sets stringent benchmark “triggers” that must be met before anyone can get a green card under the proposed legalization plan. It includes major increases in border patrol officers, worksite enforcement investigators, security measures on the borders, and surveillance technology, and raises the penalties for illegal entry. Finally, it also includes the DREAM Act, AgJobs, and other proposals that have drawn support from both sides of the aisle.
