CHC & House Dems Demand Action on CIR

Washington, DC- Today the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and House Democratic Members demanded action on comprehensive immigration reform. House Democratic Members, which included the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, were joined by Fast for Families immigration leaders.

The call to action was led by Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra, Congressman John Lewis, CAPAC Chair Judy Chu, Congressman Joe Kennedy and CHC Chairman Rubén Hinojosa also speaking during the event. House Democratic Members called on Speaker Boehner to allow a vote on H.R. 15 before the U.S. House of Representatives adjourns for the holidays.

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Rubén Hinojosa delivered the following remarks:

"Immigration reform isn't dead and it's not going away. The voices of those pushing for reform have only gotten stronger and will continue to do so. We are making progress.

A House vote is still possible when we return in January if not earlier. The House immigration bill, H.R. 15, has over 190 cosponsors. The votes are there. We can make this happen.

House Democratic Members and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have been at the forefront of this debate, and will continue to be among its strongest champions. Members of the CHC fasted for immigration reform and the Tri-Caucus is working on making this happen. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus has been a steadfast ally, working with groups and leaders across the country to push for comprehensive immigration reform.

The time is now for comprehensive immigration reform. As Members - including my Republican colleagues - return home to their districts for the Christmas break, they will have an opportunity to hear from constituents.

I'm confident this comprehensive immigration reform movement will remain strong and keep going into the holiday season and beyond.

Immigration is important to the fabric of our nation and economy. It will reduce the deficit by nearly $850 billion over the first 20 years. And it will grow the economy by $1.4 trillion over 20 years.

There is too much at stake here for our immigrant families and for our nation. Families have lived in the shadows for much too long and it's time our country fixed its broken immigration system."