May 17, 2011. (Romereports.com) Immigration reform has divided the United States for years. During a visit to El Paso, Texas, President Obama said it's time for the country to make some changes. He says it's the best move for the economy.


Barack Obama
U.S President
 “One way to strengthen the middle class in America is to reform our immigration system, so that there is no longer a massive underground economy that exploits a cheap source of labor while depressing wages for everyone else”.

Obama's current plan would allow more than 11 million undocumented immigrants to gain citizenship. But first, they would have to pay a fine and follow some requirements.

Barack Obama
U.S President
“Those who are here illegally have a responsibility as well. They have to admit that they broke the law, pay their taxes, pay a fine and learn English. And they have to undergo background checks and a lengthy process before they can get in line for legalization.”

Critics say Obama's plan is basically amnesty. They argue, it rewards those who cross the border illegally. Other have showed support, including Archbishop Jose Gomez from Los Angeles. In a statement,  the chairman of the U.S Conference of Catholic Bishops, said quote, “In the absence of comprehensive reform, many states and localities are taking the responsibility of enforcing immigration law into their own hands.”

He argues part of the problem comes when parents who are in the country illegally are deported, often forcing them to leave their  children, who are American citizens behind.

The Archbishop highlighted this problem by saying, “Congress and the President have a responsibility to come together to enact reform that corrects this humanitarian problem, respects the dignity and hard work of our immigrant brothers and sisters, and reflects America’s proud history as a hospitable society and a welcoming culture.”

Gomez says immigration reform is long overdue. He said it's time for both sides to reach an agreement.

KLH