the future of our economy, for those who come here for a better life, and for American citizens, depends on our ability to come together to fix this outdated and broken system.

I take that as maybe a recommendation you have to create a startup visa.

We need Congressional action that creates a clear, attainable pathway for people like me to obtain permanent residence.

By refusing to act on immigration reform, solutions we know we need.

I would argue they were essential before the pandemic, and will continue to be essential long after the pandemic is officially over.

The role that immigration plays in driving economic growth, and ensuring that our nation stays competitive on the global stage.

We could make sure that international, and undocumented students can access and complete higher education in the United States.

Dozens and dozens of empirical studies have found that immigration benefits our economy.

The cost of water is rising. Household water and wastewater bills have increased 160 percent since 1998.

Let me begin, Mr. Chair, by just reminding you how proud I am of the work this Committee has done to address water affordability for underserved communities.

In 2021, Congress created the temporary Low Income Household Water Assistance Program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cost of water is rising. Household water and wastewater bills have increased 160 percent since 1998.