For Immediate Release: June 9, 2006
Contact: Kimberly Allen, (202) 226-8364; (202) 420-1524 [cell]
Rep. Rothman Meets with Esperanza USA during National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast/Conference
Pictured: Rep. Rothman visits with New Jersey members of Esperanza USA in the Capitol. |
(Washington, DC)— On Wednesday, June 7, Congressman Steve Rothman (D-NJ) discussed immigration reform with religious leaders from New Jersey. The group, part of Esperanza USA, was in Washington, DC for the 2006 National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast/Conference. Esperanza USA is a national network of over 10,000 faith- and community-based agencies and organizes the annual gathering.
Rothman told the New Jersey leaders that "As the grandson of immigrants, I fully understand the vital role that legal immigrants play in the development of our great nation. I applaud Esperanza USA for their efforts and consider it a deep honor to have met with them and heard their views about comprehensive immigration reform, an important issue for all Americans."
Last year, Rothman voted against the House immigration reform bill because it failed to offer a comprehensive approach to the issue. He has publicly supported the proposal advocated by Senators McCain and Kennedy. It establishes a path to citizenship that includes the following steps: Registration and documentation; lack of a criminal record; proof of a steady job; payment of back taxes; the payment of a reasonable fine that is commensurate with the law that was violated when individuals immigrated illegally into this country; English language and American civics proficiency; and finally, waiting for citizenship behind those who are here legally.
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