WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) today voted to begin Senate floor debate on the immigration reform bill (S. 744), the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act. Senator Flake is an original cosponsor of S. 744. 

“The immigration bill we’re about to debate rewards hard work and respects and strengthens the rule of law,” said Flake.  “The bill modernizes our legal immigration framework to address America’s future labor needs, while also allowing for more talent to remain in the U.S. The bill’s tough border measures coupled with a new temporary worker program will help make communities along the border more secure.  And while the bill includes a path to citizenship, that path must be earned; no one is given amnesty.”

“Arizona has waited far too long for the federal government to act on immigration reform, so it’s encouraging that this bill is advancing through regular order. The legislation before us is not perfect, but I’m looking forward to improving it over the next few weeks and I am optimistic it will pass.”

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