RAOPS: Congressman Chet Edwards
Representing Texas’ 17th district is Congressman Chet Edwards who is also a senior member on both the Appropriations and House Budget Committees. (1). Congressman Edwards is known and respected greatly as a national champion for America's veterans, troops, and their families (2). Congressman Edwards has authored a $17.7 billion increase in funding for veterans benefits and health care since he became Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee in 2007 (1). In 2007, Chet was awarded with the Disabled American Veterans “Going to Bat for Veterans” award in 2007 and in 2005 he received the Military Order of the Purple ...view middle of the document...
In an issue of the Houston Chronicle regarding illegal immigration, Edwards’ is quoted as saying, “I do not support amnesty for illegal immigrants but am open to considering the idea of ‘earned citizenship’ along with a limited guest worker program if certain conditions could be met, such as some type of fine or conditions placed on those who entered illegally and documenting that the guest worker jobs could not be filled by American citizens” (4). Under Congressman Edwards’ Border and Security Immigration Reform plan illegal immigrants would be eligible to apply for legal permanent residence only if they can pass a criminal background check, learn English and take civic classes, pay taxes, fines and back taxes, maintain a suitable job, and Get in line behind those who came here legally and are applying for legal permanent residence (1). Currently employers are not required to verify that an applicant or employee is legally allowed to work in this country. Congressman Edwards’ reform would make it mandatory requirement that employers verify their employee’s legality (4).
My opinion is that Chets’ reform was a positive step in the right direction of protecting our borders and reducing illegal immigration. I would say it somewhat provides the framework for the Comprehensive Immigration Reform bill that President Obama hopes will be drafted by the end of this year (5). If we can create a system where the border security is strong, and where there is an orderly process for people to come in, that would be ideal. I think it would be a good thing that we would be giving those who are here in the United States...