Urging the United States Congress to swiftly enact and fund comprehensive immigration reform that creates a road map to citizenship for some 11 million undocumented immigrants, promotes economic growth, and strengthens national security.
The resolution highlights the considerable contributions of immigrants to the Texas economy, noting that unauthorized immigrants often generate more revenue than the services they utilize. It argues that a reformed immigration policy could enhance economic output significantly, with projections suggesting a $1.5 trillion increase in GDP over the next decade. These changes would allow undocumented immigrants to contribute more effectively through taxes and participation in the formal economy.
HCR44 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging the United States Congress to enact and fund comprehensive immigration reform. This reform aims to create a framework for regularizing the status of approximately 11 million undocumented immigrants while addressing labor shortages in key sectors of the economy. The resolution emphasizes that current immigration policies are outdated, rendering the nation less competitive in a global economy that requires flexibility in labor mobility.
HCR44 not only serves as a call for legislative action at the federal level but also reflects the state's acknowledgment of the role of immigrants in fueling economic vitality and growth. It positions Texas as a stakeholder in national immigration policy, advocating for a well-rounded approach that recognizes the complex realities faced by millions while fostering a sustainable economic landscape.
While the resolution advocates a structured approach to immigration, it also sets clear boundaries against blanket amnesty, which previous legislation, such as the Simpson-Mazzoli Act, has been criticized for encouraging further legal violations. The resolution stresses the importance of accountability in border enforcement, employment verification, and creating a guest worker program that meets U.S. business needs. There is an acknowledgment of necessary conditions for earning legal status, including background checks and compliance with U.S. legal standards, aimed at balancing compassion with national security.