Urges Congress and President to enact immigration policies that better serve national interest.
The resolution features alarming statistics, noting a record-breaking number of encounters with illegal aliens at U.S. borders, totaling 3.2 million in fiscal year 2023. Additionally, it cites an estimate of 16.8 million illegal immigrants residing in the United States, with New Jersey ranking fifth among states with the highest numbers of illegal immigrants. These details underscore the pressing need for legislative action on immigration reform.
Assembly Resolution No. 104 urges both Congress and the President of the United States to enact comprehensive immigration policies that better serve the national interest. The resolution highlights the importance of the federal government's role in securing borders and enforcing immigration laws to protect the rights and safety of American citizens and lawful residents. It emphasizes the responsibility of the U.S. government to address and end illegal immigration, framing it as a critical issue that threatens the country's foundation.
Proponents of the resolution likely contend that immediate and effective policy changes are necessary to address the strains on state and federal resources caused by a high population of illegal immigrants. The resolution's call for enforcement of current immigration laws may provoke debate among lawmakers regarding the balance between securing borders and the treatment of immigrants, especially in liberal circles that advocate for more humane immigration policies. The resolution also serves to communicate the sentiments of New Jersey lawmakers about national immigration policies, potentially influencing federal discussions on the matter.