Speaker Pelosi's Statement on STRIVE (Security Through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy) Act of 2007

“I applaud today’s introduction of the STRIVE Act of 2007.  It is a significant step forward.

“It reflects a strong commitment by a bipartisan group of House Members toward realistic and comprehensive immigration reform.  It provides an excellent framework for Congress and the President to begin work on the vital task of immigration reform, collaboratively and on a bipartisan basis.  The President should embrace this framework.

“Our priorities on immigration reform are clear.  Our first responsibility to the American people is their safety.  We must secure our borders and enforce our laws, while also protecting against discrimination and adhering faithfully to the rule of law.  At the same time, we must enact immigration reform that is humane and honors our American tradition of being a nation of immigrants and a land of opportunity for all.

“Today, the House has begun the hard work of addressing immigration reform.”