Gillibrand Speaks on Immigration Reform
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During a visit to Rochester on Monday, New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand addressed the issue of immigration reform.
This comes on the heals of a New York based immigrant advocacy group, Families for Freedom, report claiming Border Patrol agents in the Rochester area received perks for arresting illegal immigrants.
The report claimed those being arrested are in the country legally. It alleged that agents were rewarded with gift cards, extra vacation and cash bonuses; some as much as $2,500.
Gillibrand calls the reports disturbing. She says immigration reform is important for local employers and the New York State economy.
"Certainly our agriculture industry relies on immigrant workers, a lot of technology companies rely on immigrant workers so we need a system that works," Gillibrand said. "We need to make sure that we have a comprehensive approach so people can come here legally and stay legal and be with their families legally and have a process by which to do that."
Gillibrand is a co-sponsor of the DREAM Act that would lead to legal status for immigrants that play by the rules.